A bill for an act relating to evidence-based maternal and infant home visiting services.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Bennett and 11 co-sponsors

Bill SF 131 expands evidence-based home visiting services for pregnant women and new mothers, improving maternal and infant health through cross-agency collaboration and funding.

Subcommittee: Klimesh, Costello, and Petersen.

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Summary of Bill SF 131

Title: A bill for an act relating to evidence-based maternal and infant home visiting services
Introduced: January 23, 2025
Status: Currently in subcommittee (Klimesh, Costello, and Petersen)
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Education, Health and Human Services, Housing, Medical Assistance, Newborn Care, Public Assistance, Reports

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of Bill SF 131 is to enhance maternal and infant health outcomes through the expansion of evidence-based home visiting services. These services are designed to support women during pregnancy and after childbirth, promoting healthy pregnancies, positive birth outcomes, and the overall growth and development of infants.

Key Provisions

Cross-Agency Collaboration:

The bill mandates collaboration between the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services to identify and leverage funding sources, including Medicaid, for expanding home visiting services.

Evidence-Based Services:

The focus is on developing home visiting services that are evidence-based, addressing the needs of women prenatally, during pregnancy, and postpartum.
Services will encompass mental and physical health, social support, educational resources, and other necessary interventions.

Feasibility Study:

The Departments may conduct a feasibility study to explore options for increasing Medicaid coverage and funding for these services. This may involve a state plan amendment or waiver.

Federal Approval:

The Department of Health and Human Services is tasked with seeking federal approval for any necessary Medicaid state plan amendments or waivers to implement the bill.

Reporting Requirements:

A report must be submitted to the General Assembly by July 1, 2026, detailing the number of individuals who received evidence-based home visiting services as a result of the identified funding sources.

Impact

Target Population: The bill primarily affects pregnant women and new mothers, as well as their infants, by providing access to essential health and support services.

Stakeholders Involved: Key stakeholders, including healthcare providers, social service agencies, and educational institutions, will be involved in the design and implementation of the services.

Funding Opportunities: By leveraging Medicaid and other funding sources, the bill aims to ensure sustainable support for maternal and infant health initiatives.

Procedural Timeline

January 23, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Health and Human Services Committee.

January 30, 2025: Bill assigned to subcommittee for further discussion and review.

This bill represents a significant step towards improving maternal and infant health through structured support and collaboration across various sectors.