Brief Description: Ordering a public information campaign on postpartum depression.

Sponsors: Senators Regala, Brandland, Pridemore, Hargrove, Thibaudeau, Oke, Kohl-Welles and Rasmussen.

Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care
House Committee on Health Care
House Committee on Appropriations

Background: Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects women of all ages, economic status, and racial and ethnic backgrounds. It includes a range of physical and emotional changes that many mothers can have after the birth of a child, which can be treated with medication and counseling. If untreated, however, postpartum depression can lead to, among other things, further depression, self-destructive behavior, neglect of the infant or other siblings, or even suicide.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists estimates that about ten percent of new mothers experience postpartum depression.

Summary: The Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect must conduct a public information and outreach campaign about the significance, signs, and treatment of postpartum depression. The campaign may, within available funds, include production and distribution of a brochure and communication by electronic media, telephone hotlines, and existing parenting education events that are funded by the Council.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate      46   0
House      95   1   (House amended)
Senate      43   0   (Senate concurred)

Effective: July 24, 2005