Bill > S07460

This bill directs the commissioner of health to establish at least four maternal-infant care centers in areas with high need, specifically targeting infants under one year old experiencing withdrawal symptoms from in-utero substance exposure, such as neonatal abstinence syndrome or neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. The centers are designed to provide more appropriate and cost-effective care than traditional hospitals, offering support services to parents preparing to bring their infants home, and implementing evidence-based practices like rooming-in, encouraging breastfeeding, and providing trauma-informed care. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that a diagnosis of infant withdrawal or admission to these centers does not, by itself, constitute child abuse or require reporting to child protective services. The department of health will be responsible for monitoring the centers' effectiveness and will report to the legislature within one and two years of the program's establishment. The bill also modifies existing laws to protect mandated reporters from penalties when they do not report suspected abuse based solely on an infant's withdrawal diagnosis. The maternal-infant care centers pilot program will be in effect for four years from its implementation date.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7460