Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB465

Introduced
3/23/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Refer
3/30/23  
Report Pass
3/31/23  
Engrossed
4/3/23  
Refer
4/3/23  
Report Pass
4/4/23  
Enrolled
4/6/23  
Chaptered
4/11/23  

Caption

To Create The Continuum Of Care Program Within The Department Of Human Services; And To Amend The Life Choices Lifeline Program To Clarify Language And Ensure Proper Administration Of The Program.

Impact

The bill will significantly alter the landscape of pregnancy-related services in Arkansas by formalizing the Continuum of Care Program. Through this program, the state will partner with approved organizations to deliver essential services while strictly prohibiting any involvement with abortion providers. This change aims to ensure that women in vulnerable situations receive support aligned with the state’s policy on abortion, reflecting a proactive approach toward maternal health and support.

Summary

Senate Bill 465 establishes the Continuum of Care Program within the Arkansas Department of Human Services, aimed at providing support and resources for women facing unexpected pregnancies. The program intends to offer case management, community outreach, and healthcare coordination through a statewide telemedicine network. It emphasizes childbirth as a preferred choice and provides assistance in various areas, including parenting techniques and family formation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 465 is predominantly supportive among conservative lawmakers and advocacy groups who view the program as a means to promote pregnancy care services and childbirth. Conversely, advocates for women's reproductive rights express concerns about the limitations the bill places on women’s options during pregnancy, framing it as an attempt to undermine a woman's right to choose. The discussions surrounding this bill highlight a fundamental conflict between those advocating for women's health as defined by state standards and those supporting broader reproductive rights.

Contention

Key contentions arise around the bill's strict provisions that prohibit contracted organizations from providing abortion-related services or referrals. Critics argue this undermines comprehensive healthcare for women, particularly in cases where counseling or support may relate to reproductive choices. Additionally, the bill's shift toward centralized state control over maternal and child health services raises concerns about the quality and scope of support available to women, particularly in underserved communities.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1024

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Medicaid Tobacco Settlement Program Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB19

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Medical Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB64

An Act For The Department Of Finance And Administration - Disbursing Officer Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1025

An Act For The Department Of Health - Tobacco Prevention And Cessation Programs Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB17

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Aging, Adult, And Behavioral Health Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1074

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Secretary's Office Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB43

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Developmental Disabilities Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB16

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Children And Family Services Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HR1050

To Raise Awareness And Take Action Against Veteran Suicide; To Support State Capitol Day; And To Promote Use Of The 988 Suicide And Crisis Lifeline.

AR HB1075

An Act For The Department Of Human Services - Division Of Provider Services And Quality Assurance Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

CA AB1937

Medi-Cal: out-of-pocket pregnancy costs.

DE HB110

An Act To Amend Titles 18, 29, And 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Insurance Coverage For Termination Of Pregnancy.

RI S2946

Mandates all insurance plans provide insurance coverage for diagnosing and treating infertility for women between the ages of 25 and 42 years including preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF).

RI H6368

Amends unfair discrimination statutes to encompass more protected categories and protects against additional forms of discrimination.

RI H7877

Mandates all insurance contracts, plans or policies provide insurance coverage for the expense of testing and treating infertility, including preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF).

RI H8120

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies

RI H7878

Mandates insurance policies, provides coverage to diagnose & treat infertility for women between 25 & 42 years, including pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in conjunction with in vitro fertilization (IVF).

RI S0107

Accident And Sickness Insurance Policies