STATEHOUSE (April 8, 2024) – Gov. Eric Holcomb recently signed legislation authored by State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) into law that ensures pregnant women, who are charged with drug crimes, a pathway into treatment earlier.
According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, national estimates indicate that 40% of pregnant women entering jails and prisons have a drug use disorder. Goss-Reaves said these findings emphasize the need for legislation to confront substance abuse among pregnant women.
"This new law takes the focus off incarceration and puts the priority on treatment for addicted moms who have been charged with drug-related crimes," Goss-Reaves said. "If we can intervene sooner, we can address the underlying substance abuse issues, and give mom and baby a better path forward."
The new law will allow pregnant women facing drug-related criminal charges to be referred to drug courts, which Goss-Reaves said will help them connect with addiction and mental health resources sooner. Drug courts address cases involving nonviolent drug offenders through rehabilitation programs rather than traditional sentencing.
Florida and Kentucky are among other states that offer problem-court referrals to pregnant women struggling with substance abuse.
According to the Indiana Department of Health, in 2020 substance use disorder was the most common contributing factor to 43 percent of all pregnancy-related deaths in Indiana.
To learn more about House Enrolled Act 1418 and follow other legislation signed into law by the governor, visit in.gov/gov/newsroom/2024-bill-watch.
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State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) represents House District 31,
which includes portions of Grant and Madison counties.
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