Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget includes an innovative benefit for expectant mothers - paid leave for prenatal care. If the budget is approved, it would make New York the first state in the US to offer such a privilege. The budget outlines an amendment to the paid family leave act, permitting up to 40 hours of regular work leave for eligible employees to attend prenatal check-ups without eating into the standard twelve weeks of paid family leave.

Healthy Baby Network’s doulas, Jasmine Brewer and Jacqueline Lindsey, affirm the need for the proposed reforms. They argue that the prenatal period can be physically and mentally stressful for mothers due to potential complications, birthing classes, and numerous medical appointments.

This proposed change comes amid discussions about maternal health, particularly during Black Maternal Health Week, which runs from April 11-17. In support of the proposal, Senator Samra Brouk asserts that prenatal appointments are crucial to identifying and addressing potential health issues.

The proposal also expands support for postpartum care, targeting conditions beyond depression to include OCD and anxiety. Senator Brouk notes that postpartum depression is the most common maternal health complication, contributing significantly to maternal mortality.

For mothers seeking more details on how to avail themselves of this proposed benefit, they should consider contacting the Paid Family Leave department directly. Information on how to get a hold of Paid Family Leave can be found at their website, or alternatively, one could visit eddcaller.com for further assistance.