STATEHOUSE (Jan. 29, 2024) – Legislation authored by State Rep. Lorissa Sweet (R-Wabash) would help protect premature infants by mandating life-saving care regardless of gestational age.
Sweet said if a baby is born prematurely, Indiana hospitals are currently only required to provide a screening, stabilizing treatment and information to a parent regarding treatment options. She said her legislation, known as the Preemie Protection Act, would go further by requiring hospitals to inform pregnant women of their capabilities of treating premature babies and managing a high-risk pregnancy.
"Every child deserves a fair chance at life, and premature babies and their mothers need care every step of the way," Sweet said. "My legislation would ensure mothers are informed about their options for care if they deliver their child prematurely, especially as many hospitals are not equipped or staffed to handle these situations."
Sweet's legislation would require hospitals to inform mothers of their facility's ability to care of infants born prematurely before admitting the woman for treatment. The bill would also allow the mother to be transported to the same hospital as their baby.
"This bill makes sure hospitals and high-risk pregnant women are on the same page, so they are well informed and can receive the appropriate level of care they need," Sweet said.
House Bill 1287 has been assigned to the House Public Health Committee. Watch session and committees live, and view legislation at iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Lorissa Sweet (R-Wabash) represents House District 50,
which includes all of Huntington County, and portions of Miami, Wabash and Wells counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
