Luján, Scott Reintroduce Legislation to Support Treatment of Pregnant and Postpartum Women

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) announced the reintroduction of the Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) Treatment Reauthorization Act to reauthorize residential treatment programs for pregnant and postpartum women who have a substance use disorder.

Drug overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl reached record highs in 2020 and 2021, with pregnant women experiencing more overdoses than ever before. The PPW Treatment Reauthorization Act addresses this health crisis by authorizing funding to enhance comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services, recovery support services, and harm reduction interventions supported by the federal Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.

“I’m proud to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that strengthens resources for pregnant and postpartum women, supports families, and tackles health disparities in reproductive care,” said Senator Luján. “Substance use disorder continues to significantly impact New Mexico, and this legislation will help address the issue by reauthorizing funding to ensure that all communities have access to the necessary resources for preventing health complications and treating substance use disorders.”

“By extending and strengthening these essential programs, we are ensuring pregnant and postpartum women are receiving the support and care they need to navigate substance use disorders and mental health challenges,” said Senator Scott. “I’m proud to lead legislation that helps to build a future where every mother and child can thrive.”

Full text of the bill is available HERE.

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