Bill > HB2262

This bill creates two new sections in Missouri state law (191.730 and 191.744) focused on improving perinatal mental health care. Section 191.730 requires health care professionals providing maternity services to screen pregnant women for mental disorders and mental illnesses using validated tools during each trimester of pregnancy. If a screening identifies an untreated mental health condition, the health care professional must either provide treatment directly or refer the patient to appropriate care. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is tasked with establishing guidelines for treating mental health conditions during pregnancy and making these guidelines publicly available online. Additionally, the bill mandates that the department establish a "perinatal navigator program" designed to help pregnant women access early prenatal care and connect them with local community services and home visiting programs. The bill emphasizes that all screening and referral processes must comply with existing confidentiality laws protecting patient privacy. These provisions aim to improve early detection and treatment of mental health issues during pregnancy, potentially reducing risks to both mothers and their unborn children.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2262&year=2026&code=R