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HB 1819

TO REQUIRE THE STATE REGISTRAR OF VITAL RECORDS TO COORDINATE WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS FOR MEDICAL SCIENCES TO CONTACT MOTHERS FOR SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE DURING THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lee Johnson

HB 1819 aimed to connect the State Registrar with UAMS to support new mothers during postpartum recovery, enhancing access to vital resources and assistance.

WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1819

Summary of House Bill 1819

Bill Number: HB 1819
Title: To Require the State Registrar of Vital Records to Coordinate with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences to Contact Mothers for Support and Assistance During the Postpartum Period
Status: Withdrawn by Author
Introduced: March 17, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1819 aimed to enhance support for mothers during the postpartum period by establishing a formal coordination between the State Registrar of Vital Records and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). The bill sought to ensure that mothers of newborns receive necessary assistance and resources during a critical time in their recovery and adjustment to motherhood.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed the following key provision:

  • Coordination Requirement: The State Registrar of Vital Records would be mandated to work with UAMS to reach out to mothers who register for a birth certificate in Arkansas. This outreach would focus on providing support and assistance during the postpartum period.

Specific Amendments

The bill included an amendment to Arkansas Code § 20-18-203(b), adding a new subdivision (6) that outlines the coordination responsibilities of the State Registrar.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1819 would have affected:

  • Mothers of Newborns: The primary beneficiaries would be mothers who have recently given birth, providing them with access to support services during the postpartum phase.
  • Healthcare Providers: UAMS and other healthcare entities involved in maternal and infant health would play a crucial role in delivering the proposed support and assistance.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 17, 2025: HB 1819 was filed and read for the first time. The rules were suspended, and it was read a second time before being referred to the House Committee on Public Health, Welfare, and Labor.
  • April 14, 2025: The bill was withdrawn by the author, halting its progression through the legislative process.

Conclusion

While HB 1819 was withdrawn and did not advance, its intent highlighted the importance of postpartum support for mothers and the potential role of state agencies in facilitating access to necessary resources. The discussion surrounding this bill reflects ongoing concerns about maternal health and well-being in Arkansas.

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

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