NY S02359

Directs the New York Commissioner of Mental Health to establish a maternal mental health workgroup within the office of mental health, with membership including commissioners from mental health, children and family services, and health; statewide mental health and maternal health organizations; health care providers; insurance industry representatives; and additional stakeholders as deemed necessary.

Requires at least one-third of workgroup members to come from historically underrepresented communities disproportionately impacted by underdiagnosis of maternal mental health disorders.

Provides workgroup members with expense reimbursement including childcare, travel, meals, and lodging to enable full participation from underrepresented communities.

Charges the workgroup with studying and issuing recommendations on identifying vulnerable populations and risk factors for maternal mental health disorders during pregnancy through the first postpartum year; recommending evidence-based prevention, screening, and treatment strategies; and proposing legislation, policies, and funding models to address maternal mental health needs.

Requires submission of a final report with findings and recommendations to the governor, legislative leadership, and relevant state commissioners by December 31, 2023; the act expires two years after taking effect.