Bill > J01259

This resolution memorializes Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 14-20, 2025, as Birth Center Awareness Week in New York State, highlighting the critical role of birth centers in providing comprehensive, patient-centered healthcare. Birth centers are described as freestanding healthcare facilities offering midwifery-led care for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and newborn services, with over 400 centers nationwide providing services like prenatal care, childbirth support, wellness exams, and family planning. The resolution emphasizes research demonstrating that birth centers improve birth outcomes, reduce cesarean sections, lower preterm birth rates, and provide cost-effective care, particularly for underserved and minority communities. Despite New York being home to an American Association of Birth Centers state chapter, the state currently has only eight birth centers, with no freestanding center in Queens, a diverse borough of 2.4 million residents. The resolution calls on Governor Hochul to recognize birth centers' importance in addressing maternal health disparities and encourages healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public to support midwifery-led care. A copy of the resolution will be transmitted to the Governor's office.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/J1259