Legislature Passes Bill To Study Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

A bill to encourage improvement in reporting of infant health problems caused by drug addicted mothers is headed to Gov. Mike Pence to be signed into law.

Senate Bill 408, authored by Sen. Vaneta Becker, R-Evansville, requires the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) to study and collaborate to determine best practices and reporting of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) cases.

NAS can arise when mothers abuse either prescription or illegal drugs while pregnant, causing their babies to experience drug dependency, seizures, slow weight gain and other dangerous symptoms.

“SB 408 will bring everyone to the table to talk about this tragic health concern among newborns,” Becker said. “These discussions will hopefully lead to better awareness as well as better reporting so we can get more services and help for newborn infants with drug dependency.”

The bill passed both the House and Senate unanimously.

Erika Brock is a reporter for TheStatehouseFile.com, a news website powered by Franklin College journalism student.

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

Here’s where to get free eclipse glasses in Marion County

The Marion County Health Department will host multiple events to distribute free eclipse-viewing glasses and provide information about how to stay safe.