Conaway-, Murphy- and McCoy-Sponsored Bill Seeks to Secure Equitable Access to Maternal Care
(TRENTON) – Legislation designed to improve maternal and prenatal outcomes for mothers and children statewide passed the New Jersey General Assembly last week. Bill A1815, sponsored by Assemblyman Herb Conaway and Assemblywomen Carol Murphy and Tennille McCoy, would require the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) to conduct a survey on the status of antenatal and prenatal care clinics throughout the state, as well as those that have closed within the past two years.
“The passage of bill A1815 marks a momentous and crucial step towards achieving effective maternal and natal care services across our state,” said Assemblyman Conaway (D-Burlington). “This legislation underscores our commitment to improving the health of mothers and their newborn babies. By addressing gaps in prenatal and antenatal care, we can promote healthier pregnancies and prevent tragedies.”
The information gathered from the survey required under this legislation will help evaluate the accessibility of care clinics statewide and their ability to provide care services, determine the locations where low- and moderate-income pregnant women receive services, and gather data about the cultural, demographic, and socioeconomic backgrounds of pregnant women served by these care clinics. The bill seeks to secure women’s access to care clinics that operate in a respectful and effective manner.
“By requiring surveys on clinics statewide, we are taking proactive measures in evaluating and improving the accessibility and quality of care for mothers-to-be,” said Assemblywoman Murphy (D-Burlington). “Through A1815, we are striving to ensure all women receive the support they deserve throughout their pregnancies.”
“This legislation is about prioritizing the health and well-being of pregnant women in New Jersey,” said Assemblywoman McCoy (D-Mercer, Middlesex). “No woman should be subject to subpar care, regardless of their insurance status or geographic location.”