CT SB01011

Birthing hospitals must provide education and training to nurses and staff caring for high-risk newborns on their roles as mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect.

Department of Children and Families shall coordinate with birthing hospitals to share information about discharge planning procedures and department functions for high-risk newborns.

Commissioner must develop guidelines by January 1, 2024 for safe care of newborns exhibiting symptoms of prenatal substance exposure, withdrawal, or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, including creation of family care plans.

Providers delivering or caring for affected newborns must notify the Department of Children and Families in prescribed form and manner, including a copy of the family care plan.

Changes language from "women" and "mothers" to "pregnant parents" and "birth parents" in statutory definitions and references.

Effective date: July 1, 2023.