The enactment of SB715 will amend Hawaii Revised Statutes by adding a new section that designates September as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month. This change is aimed at increasing awareness and education about the dangers of prenatal alcohol exposure, potentially leading to a decrease in the incidence of FASD. By establishing a specific time each year for awareness activities, the state hopes to engage both the public and healthcare communities in disseminating important information regarding the risks of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Summary
Senate Bill 715 aims to address the significant issue of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, which is recognized as a leading preventable cause of birth defects and developmental disorders in the United States. The bill intends to promote public awareness about the risks associated with drinking alcohol during pregnancy by designating the month of September as 'Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month'. This initiative reflects the legislature's commitment to tackling fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), which affects thousands of babies born each year with various lifelong deficits due to maternal alcohol consumption.
Contention
While the bill focuses on public health promotion, there may be varying opinions on its approach and effectiveness. Some lawmakers and stakeholders might argue about the necessary measures to actually reduce the rates of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, questioning whether awareness campaigns alone can lead to meaningful changes in behavior. Additionally, discussions around funding for awareness initiatives and the potential for increased state involvement in maternal health issues could arise as a point of contention among members of the legislature and public health advocates.
Requires DOH to expand services provided under plan to improve perinatal mental health services and health insurers to cover costs of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder screening.
Requires DOH to expand services provided under plan to improve perinatal mental health services and health insurers to cover costs of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder screening.