On Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at the New York City Council Stated Meeting, Council Member Kevin C. Riley introduced Intro. 1269, a groundbreaking Local Law aimed at enhancing mental health support for individuals facing pregnancy loss. This legislation, co-sponsored by Council Member Farah Louis and Council Member Amanda Farías, Co-Chairs of the New York City Council Women’s Caucus, mandates the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to create and distribute pamphlets outlining mental health resources available to those navigating pregnancy loss.
Pregnancy loss is an intimate and often silent struggle impacting countless individuals and families in our communities. Council Member Riley, recognizing the profound emotional challenges accompanying such experiences, emphasizes the critical need to address the often-overlooked toll on mental health.
- Advertisement -
Intro 1269 not only calls on the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to ensure accessibility of pamphlets in facilities operated or contracted by the department but also mandates widespread distribution to all reproductive healthcare providers citywide. Moreover, the information will be available online in the 14 designated citywide languages with regular updates, closing the information gap and serving all New Yorkers.
This legislation represents a crucial step in safeguarding reproductive rights by acknowledging the mental health factors of pregnancy loss and ensuring accessible and accurate information. It aims to foster a more inclusive and empowering healthcare environment.
For more information and updates on Res 1269-2023 visit The New York City Council – File #: Int 1269-2023 (nyc.gov).
“With the introduction of Intro 1269, we take a significant stride toward recognizing and addressing the mental health challenges that often accompany pregnancy loss, an experience that touches countless lives within our communities. This legislation is not just about distributing pamphlets; it is a crucial step in fostering an environment of understanding, compassion, and comprehensive support for those navigating the profound emotional toll of pregnancy and infant loss,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “By ensuring accessible information in multiple languages and widespread distribution, we bridge the knowledge gap and extend a compassionate hand to all New Yorkers in need. Advocating for mental health and the protection of those experiencing such losses is an integral part of our commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive city for all. Thank you to the Women’s Caucus Co-Chairs Farías and Louis for your partnership on this legislation. I urge the support of my colleagues on Intro 1269-2023 to safeguard reproductive rights by recognizing the mental health factors of pregnancy loss, and ensure accessible and accurate information. It aims to foster a more inclusive and empowering healthcare environment.”
“Maternal health throughout the nation is in a critical phase, and Intro 1269 achieves yet another significant milestone for New York City in addressing the often-overlooked and forgotten mental health crises related to pregnancy loss,” said Council Member Farah Louis. “This innovative bill not only acknowledges the profound emotional toll that birthing people experience with pregnancy loss, but also guarantees accessibility to vital information for individuals and families navigating intense grief, by mandating the creation and distribution of pamphlets outlining mental health resources. I am proud to support taking this step for fostering inclusivity, protecting reproductive rights, and empowering healthcare institutions to create a more supportive and encouraging environment for all New Yorkers.”
“Introduction 1269 represents a vital step towards addressing the often-overlooked mental health toll accompanying pregnancy loss. As we navigate this deeply personal and silent struggle impacting countless families, this legislation ensures accessible resources and comprehensive support,” said Council Member Amanda Farías. “By requiring the creation of pamphlets distributed citywide, we bridge the information gap, empower those contending with pregnancy loss, and foster a more inclusive healthcare environment. Thank you to Council Member Kevin C. Riley and my Women’s Caucus Co-Chair Farah Louis for your leadership in advocating for the mental well-being of those experiencing this profound loss.”
