BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2079

By: Thompson, Senfronia

Public Health

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Many medical providers report that new and expectant mothers feel embarrassed and ashamed to be experiencing depressive symptoms during a time that is generally perceived as a joyful time in a mother’s life, despite the fact that these symptoms are more common than many realize. As a result, the parties assert that more awareness is needed to inform the public on the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression and where to get help and to inform families that this type of depression is relatively common and treatable.  H.B. 2079 seeks to increase awareness of postpartum depression. 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 2079 amends the Government Code to designate May as Postpartum Depression Awareness Month to increase awareness of postpartum depression and encourage the identification of signs, symptoms, and treatment options for postpartum depression; the creation and update of lists of recommended materials for perinatal mental health available through the Department of State Health Services and the Health and Human Services Commission; electronic circulation of and posting on state and local agency websites of recommended postpartum depression resources; mothers-to-be and new mothers to be screened for postpartum depression using validated survey instruments; and collaboration between governmental agencies, educational institutions, hospitals, private health care practices, health insurance providers, Medicaid providers, and mental health agencies to increase awareness of postpartum affective illness. The bill requires Postpartum Depression Awareness Month to be regularly observed through appropriate programs and activities to increase awareness of postpartum depression.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2015.