WeVote

Bill

Bill

J 109

Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 22-28, 2025, as Doula Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of World Doula Week

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Roxanne Persaud

Requests Governor Hochul to proclaim March 22-28, 2025 as Doula Week in New York; a ceremonial recognition to honor doulas and boost awareness without new spending.

ADOPTED
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · J 109

Summary: Bill J 109 — Memorializing Governor Hochul to Proclaim Doula Week

Overview

Bill J 109 is a memorializing (resolution) measure introduced on January 9, 2025, and subsequently adopted. The resolution requests the Governor of New York to proclaim March 22–28, 2025 as Doula Week in the State of New York, aligning with World Doula Week.

Purpose and Intent

  • To formally recognize the important role of doulas in maternal and infant health.
  • To designate a specific week in 2025 for statewide acknowledgment and celebration of doulas, in conjunction with World Doula Week.

Key Provisions

  • The primary directive is for Governor Kathy Hochul to issue a proclamation proclaiming March 22–28, 2025 as Doula Week in New York.
  • The measure is ceremonial in nature with no new laws, regulations, or direct state spending.
  • It signals state-level recognition and appreciation for doulas and their contributions to birth support and family well-being.

Affected Parties

  • Doulas and the communities they serve (pregnant people and families).
  • The Governor’s Office, which would issue the proclamation if it accepts the memorialization.
  • The general public, through enhanced visibility and awareness of doulas’ roles.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: January 9, 2025.
  • Legislative actions: Referred to Finance (January 9); reported to calendar for consideration and adopted (January 14).
  • Status: Adopted by the Legislature, with the expectation that the Governor would issue a proclamation recognizing Doula Week.

Sponsor

  • Primary sponsor: Roxanne J. Persaud.

Fiscal and Practical Implications

  • No explicit fiscal impact or appropriations are attached to this resolution.
  • Implementation depends on the Governor issuing a proclamation; otherwise, the measure remains ceremonial.

Potential Impact

  • Elevates awareness of doulas and their role in maternal health outcomes.
  • Encourages public recognition and potential local observances or events during Doula Week.
  • Reinforces statewide support for compassionate birth practices and family-centered care.

If you’d like, I can compare this bill’s language to typical proclamations or provide a one-paragraph blurb suitable for a newsletter or briefing.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.