MA
Massachusetts Senate Bill S1441

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S1441

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Establishing a newborn health and safe sleep pilot program

Impact

This bill will amend Chapter 111 of the Massachusetts General Laws, introducing a clear definition of 'baby boxes' and outlining the structure of the new pilot program. An essential part of this bill is that parents or guardians must complete an online education syllabus on safe sleep practices before receiving a baby box. This requirement ensures that families are well-informed about the risks associated with unsafe sleep conditions and the best practices for preventing infant mortality, thus aiming to foster a culture of safe sleep habits in new parents.

Summary

Senate Bill S1441 aims to establish a newborn health and safe sleep pilot program in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill requires the state's health department to implement a program designed explicitly to reduce infant mortality rates. One key aspect of the program is the distribution of 'baby boxes,' which are specially designed to provide safe sleeping environments for newborns. These boxes will also contain essential care items that promote healthy parenting practices. The initiative emphasizes the need for a safer sleep environment as vital for the health and well-being of infants.

Contention

While the main goal of S1441 is to protect infant lives, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation and accessibility of the program. The requirement for an online syllabus could disproportionately affect low-income families or those without internet access. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding the allocation of state resources for this program, particularly if it competes with other public health initiatives. Critics may question whether the funding for the pilot program could be better utilized in broader healthcare services or whether it adequately addresses the underlying conditions leading to infant mortality rates in diverse communities.

Companion Bills

MA S2648

Replaced by Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Health to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to public health matters.

Previously Filed As

MA S1492

Relative to newborn infant safe sleep practices

MA HB2137

Establishing the Maternal and Newborn Supply Kit Program; and imposing powers and duties on the Department of Health.

MA H139

Baby Boxes/Newborn Safety Device

MA SB0627

Children: protection; safe delivery of newborns law; modify definition of newborn and allow surrender to a newborn safety device. Amends secs. 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 17 & 20, ch. XII of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 712.1 et seq.) & adds sec. 3a to ch. XII.

MA HB4067

Children: protection; safe delivery of newborns law; modify definition of newborn and allow surrender to a newborn safety device. Amends secs. 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 17 & 20, ch. XII of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 712.1 et seq.) & adds sec. 3a to ch. XII.

MA H4392

Relative to substance exposed newborns

MA S2648

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Public Health to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to public health matters.

MA HB5407

Children: protection; surrender of a newborn to a baby drop box under safe delivery of newborn law; allow. Amends secs. 1, 2, 3, 5 & 17, ch. XII of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 712.1 et seq.) & adds secs. 3a & 3b to ch. XII.

MA AB369

Newborn infant safety devices under the safe haven law.

MA H166

Relative to substance exposed newborns

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.