- Savanah Dominikus
- (916) 319-2076
- savanah.dominikus@asm.ca.gov
SAN DIEGO- Assembly Bill 2581 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. Maternal Mental health conditions, including anxiety and postpartum depression, are the most common complication of pregnancy and birth, with over 75% of women being impacted by a maternal mental health concern. AB 2581 enables various medical and behavioral health professionals to take courses on maternal mental health as part of their continuing education.
“Understanding women's health factors and addressing pregnancy risks is essential across healthcare disciplines,” stated Assemblymember Brian Maienschein. “This bill expands education to include maternal mental health courses for various medical professionals, enhancing their ability to treat patients effectively.”
This bill received broad support from both local and other key stakeholders, including the California Chapter of Postpartum Support International, Return to Zero: Hope, Maternal Mental Health NOW, Postpartum Health Alliance of San Diego, Love Dad, and The California Children’s Trust, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and The California Board of Psychology. This strong backing from a diverse coalition of organizations highlights the critical importance of maternal mental health, amplifying the voices of San Diego-based groups and other key partners across the state.
AB 2581 builds off of previous legislation passed by Maienschein. In 2019, Governor Newsom signed Maienschein’s Assembly Bill 845 allowing physicians and surgeons to satisfy continuing medical education requirements by taking courses in maternal mental health. This year’s legislation extends that ability to other medical providers such as nurses, psychologists and physician assistants.
Maienschein continued, “These are some of the first steps in empowering our healthcare professionals, enabling them to understand maternal mental health and treat their patients effectively.”