Palmetto State News

U.S. Senators Tim Scott and Ben Ray Luján have reintroduced the Pregnant and Postpartum Women Treatment Reauthorization Act, aimed at ensuring access to mental health and substance use disorder care for pregnant and postpartum women across the United States.

Senator Scott stated, "By extending and strengthening these essential programs, we are ensuring pregnant and postpartum women are receiving the support and care they need to navigate substance abuse use disorders and mental health challenges." He expressed pride in leading legislation that supports mothers and children.

Senator Luján emphasized the bipartisan nature of the legislation, noting its focus on resources for pregnant women, family support, and addressing reproductive health disparities. "Substance use disorder continues to significantly impact New Mexico," he said. The act aims to reauthorize funding to provide communities with necessary resources for preventing health complications related to substance use disorders.

The legislation also includes a reauthorization of Mom’s IMPACTT, a South Carolina pilot program focused on improving access to maternal health care through telemedicine. This initiative is a collaboration between the Medical University of South Carolina and the SC Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services.

The effort has garnered additional support from Senators Shelley Moore Capito, Amy Klobuchar, and Thom Tillis.