WeVote
Log In

Bill

RA

Bill

A 1799

Requires DOH to develop shared decision-making tool and establish maternal health care pilot program.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Reginald Atkins and 6 co-sponsors

Directs New Jersey DOH to create maternal health shared decision-making tool and pilot program to improve pregnancy care outcomes and health equity.

Reported out of Assembly Committee with Amendments and Referred to Assembly Appropriations Committee
#health #women
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1799

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1799 directs New Jersey's Department of Health (DOH) to create a shared decision-making tool for maternal health care and establish a pilot program to improve maternal health outcomes. The bill requires the DOH to develop resources that help pregnant individuals and healthcare providers make informed decisions together about pregnancy and childbirth care.

Why is this important

Maternal health disparities in New Jersey—particularly affecting Black and Hispanic women—remain a significant public health concern, with higher rates of maternal mortality and morbidity compared to white women. Shared decision-making tools and targeted pilot programs could improve care coordination, patient autonomy, and health equity by ensuring pregnant individuals have evidence-based information and meaningful participation in their care plans.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and funding: The bill requires DOH to develop and potentially staff these programs; questions remain about budgeting, ongoing operational costs, and whether appropriations will match the mandate's scope
  • Tool design and effectiveness: Disagreement may exist over what constitutes "shared decision-making" and whether a standardized tool can adequately address diverse patient needs, preferences, and cultural contexts
  • Pilot program scope and duration: Unclear parameters around which facilities participate, how long the pilot runs, how success is measured, and whether successful pilots will be expanded statewide or require additional legislation

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

Sign in to ask a question.