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Committee releases bill to offer prenatal depression screening on request
Summary
The Health Committee released A.4193, which would require licensed prenatal providers to offer screening upon request to pregnant patients with a history of depression or postpartum depression; sponsors described the measure as a limited supplement to existing law.
A.4193 would require licensed health care professionals providing prenatal care to offer screening, upon request, to pregnant patients with a history of depression or postpartum depression.
Committee discussion described the bill as a minor statutory supplement to existing law governing pregnancy care and associated mental‑health services. Sponsors listed witnesses including advocates from Advocates for Children of New Jersey and Care Plus; the hearing included no substantive opposing testimony. The committee moved to release the bill and recorded roll‑call votes; several members voted in favor and there were abstentions recorded for some members.
The transcript records no Department of Health fiscal analysis or implementation details during the hearing. The measure’s supporters said it is intended to expand access to screening and early identification during prenatal care.
