New Law Recognizes Impact Of Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Written by on October 20, 2023
On October 18, 2023, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed Ava’s Law (Bill S.6082-A-Fernandez/A.5734-A-Pretlow), a bipartisan law that requires the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) to create informational materials to help and support New Yorkers who have experienced the death of an unborn child or an infant.
Specifically, Ava’s Law directs NYSDOH to provide information to the public on “the potential mental and physical impact” caused by “pregnancy loss or infant loss”, as well as “resources for support and follow-up care.” Ava’s Law defines “pregnancy loss or infant loss” to include stillbirths, miscarriages, and abortions performed for “medical reasons.” According to the Governor’s Office, NYSDOH will make this information available on its maternal health website. Also, health care providers who treat women who have experienced pregnancy loss or infant loss will make printed or digital versions of this information available to their patients.
“‘Far too many parents are forced to deal with the pain and trauma of losing a child to a miscarriage or stillbirth,’ Governor Hochul said. ‘When the worst occurs, it is imperative that we support the mental and physical health of women who are navigating this loss. With Ava’s Law, we can ensure [that] families have access to the support and resources they need as they recover.’”
Sen. Nathalia Fernandez, the Senate sponsor of Ava’s Law, said: “‘Ava’s Law underscores our commitment to accessible resources, ensuring affected individuals have access to vital services like mental health care, milk banks, gynecological support, and postpartum doula services.’”
New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms thanks the Governor and the Legislature for enacting Ava’s Law and hopes that the information provided will help families that are struggling to deal with the devastating loss of a child.
