S2359

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday directing the Commissioner of Mental Health to establish a maternal mental health workgroup, addressing what supporters called a maternal mortality and mental health crisis in the state. Senate Print 2359, sponsored by Sen. Brouk, passed on a 62-0 vote. The bill seeks to improve outcomes for mothers and birthing people affected by maternal mental health disorders, which affect one in five pregnant people and are the third leading cause of death during pregnancy or childbirth, according to the state's Maternal Mortality Review Board. Supporters emphasized that maternal mental health conditions are 100 percent preventable yet current solutions remain insufficient. The legislation is particularly aimed at addressing disparities in care for Black and brown mothers, who experience postpartum depression at significantly higher rates but receive treatment less frequently than other populations. Sen. Webb, chair of the Women's Issues Committee, praised the bill for strengthening the state's capacity to diagnose and treat vulnerable populations. Sen. Krueger noted that while perinatal depression screening has been required for years, the problem continues to grow and requires new models and greater awareness. The workgroup will study and issue recommendations related to maternal mental health.