Connecticut House Bill HB07113

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/17
• Refer: 2/22/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Prenatal Opioid And Opiate Exposure.

Impact

The bill's implications are significant as it mandates that all mandated reporters involved in the delivery and care of high-risk newborns report any suspected cases of abuse or neglect. This is intended to ensure immediate intervention whenever necessary and improve outcomes for at-risk infants. Moreover, by facilitating better coordination and sharing of information between birthing hospitals and DCF, the legislation is designed to establish comprehensive support mechanisms for families, thereby promoting both safety and well-being.

Summary

House Bill 07113 seeks to address the critical issue of prenatal opioid and opiate exposure among newborns in Connecticut. The bill introduces enhanced requirements for the Department of Children and Families (DCF) when investigating cases of child abuse or neglect that involve high-risk newborns—defined as those who test positive for opioids or opiates at birth. This measure aims to ensure that appropriate actions are taken promptly to safeguard the health and safety of these vulnerable infants and their families.

Contention

While the proposed legislation is largely supported for its emphasis on protecting newborns from the adverse effects of prenatal substance exposure, there are concerns regarding how increased regulations might impact healthcare providers. Some may argue that the additional responsibilities placed on healthcare staff could lead to a chilling effect on their interactions with patients, potentially discouraging mothers from seeking prenatal care or honesty in reporting substance use due to fear of legal repercussions. Balancing the need for child protection with the importance of maternal care and support is likely to be a focal point of discussion as the bill progresses.