Bill > SB352

This bill enacts new provisions concerning behavioral health screenings for women during the perinatal period, which is defined as the time from the start of pregnancy until one year after childbirth. Licensed health care professionals and behavioral health professionals (individuals authorized to provide medical or behavioral health services) are permitted to screen women for behavioral health disorders during their perinatal care or when a mother is present for her infant's pediatric care, provided the woman consents. If a screening suggests a woman may be at risk for or experiencing a behavioral health disorder, and the professional is not a specialist, they must offer a referral to a specialized perinatal behavioral health service provider or a program designated by the Department of Behavioral Health. If a screening indicates a risk of immediate harm, emergency protocols must be followed. The bill also allows health benefit plans to cover these screenings and appropriates $2 million for each of fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to the Department of Behavioral Health for perinatal behavioral health initiatives, including partnering with organizations to facilitate direct referrals for those screened.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb352