Bill Text: VA HB2446 | 2025 | Regular Session | Introduced
Bill Title: Postpartum Depression Education Act; Department of Health to establish a public awareness campaign.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 12-0)
Status: (Introduced) 2025-01-31 - Reported from Appropriations (22-Y 0-N) [HB2446 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2025-HB2446-Introduced.html
2025 SESSION
INTRODUCED
25103463D
HOUSE BILL NO. 2446
Offered January 8, 2025
Prefiled January 8, 2025
A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Chapter 2 of Title 32.1 an article numbered 23, consisting of sections numbered 32.1-73.28 through 32.1-73.31, relating to Postpartum Depression Education Act; report.
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Patron—Mundon King
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Committee Referral Pending
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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Chapter 2 of Title 32.1 an article numbered 23, consisting of sections numbered 32.1-73.28 through 32.1-73.31, as follows:
Article 23.
Postpartum Depression Education Act.
§ 32.1-73.28. Public awareness campaign; Department authorized to seek funding.
A. The Department, in collaboration with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, shall develop and implement a statewide public awareness campaign on perinatal and postpartum depression. Such campaign shall:
1. Increase awareness about the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options for perinatal and postpartum depression;
2. Provide culturally appropriate and accessible materials for diverse populations;
3. Provide information to health care providers, birthing individuals, families, and community organizations;
4. Utilize multiple platforms, including digital media, print materials, and community outreach programs, to maximize public engagement; and
5. Highlight the importance of seeking early treatment for and reducing the stigma associated with perinatal and postpartum depression.
B. The Department may seek and accept funding from any public or private entities to implement the provisions of this article.
§ 32.1-73.29. Development of educational materials and resources.
A. The Department shall create and distribute educational materials on perinatal and postpartum depression. Such materials shall include:
1. Fact sheets on symptoms, causes, and available treatment options;
2. Contact information for local, state, and national resources, including crisis hotlines, counseling services, and support groups;
3. Guidance for health care providers on screening, diagnosing, and managing perinatal and postpartum depression; and
4. Information on the impact of untreated perinatal and postpartum depression on maternal and infant health outcomes.
B. The Department shall distribute materials prepared pursuant to subsection A to:
1. Health care providers, including obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, and primary care physicians;
2. Hospitals, birthing centers, and clinics;
3. Community organizations, including faith-based groups and nonprofit organizations; and
4. Public health offices and other relevant government agencies.
§ 32.1-73.30. Online resource hub.
The Department shall develop and maintain an online resource hub that provides:
1. Up-to-date information on perinatal and postpartum depression;
2. A directory of mental health providers specializing in perinatal and postpartum care;
3. Information on available support groups, counseling services, and treatment options; and
4. A platform for individuals and families to share experiences and connect with community resources.
§ 32.1-73.31. Annual report.
A. The Department shall submit an annual report to the Governor and the General Assembly that includes:
1. Metrics on public engagement with the programs implemented pursuant to this article;
2. Feedback from health care providers, community organizations, and individuals served by programs implemented pursuant to this article;
3. Progress in reducing stigma and increasing early detection and treatment of perinatal and postpartum depression; and
4. Recommendations for improving or expanding programs implemented pursuant to this article.
B. The Department shall publish the annual report prepared pursuant to subsection A on its website.
2. The Department of Health shall submit the first report prepared pursuant to § 32.1-73.31 of the Code of Virginia, as created by this act, by December 31, 2026.
