ALBANY – The State Assembly passed a series of bills designed to support expecting and new mothers amid an increase in maternal mortality rates in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2021, 1,205 women died of maternal causes in the nation compared to 861 in 2020 and 754 in 2019.
Assemblyman Matt Slater (R, Yorktown) lauded the passage of the bills, which he says will improve maternal health outcomes in New York. National data also shows that maternal health outcomes are worse for black and Hispanic women when compared to their white counterparts.
“Recognizing the maternal health crisis is crucial, and it’s imperative that we collaboratively devise effective solutions,” said Slater.
The bills included provisions that would incorporate maternal depression screenings into routine care and enhance access to prenatal, intra-natal, and postpartum care.
All of the new measures easily passed in the Assembly with wide bi-partisan support.
“We must prioritize the well-being of those carrying the gift of life, ensuring they receive the comprehensive support and resources essential for a positive and healthy experience,” Slater said.
