Florida Pregnancy Support and Wellness Services Bill (HB 41)

HB 41 requires the Department of Health to contract with the Florida Pregnancy Care Network for the management and delivery of pregnancy support and wellness services to eligible clients.

The Florida Pregnancy Care Network is described as a “not-for-profit statewide alliance of pregnancy support organizations that provide pregnancy support and wellness services through a comprehensive system of care to women and families.”

The contract requires the network to:

• Establish, implement, and monitor a comprehensive system of care through subcontractors to meet the pregnancy support and wellness needs of eligible clients;
• Establish and manage subcontracts with a sufficient number of providers to ensure availability of services;
• Spend at least 90% of funds on pregnancy support and wellness services;
• Off services through vouchers or other appropriate arrangements;
• Require background screenings for certain volunteers and staff;
• Annually monitor its subcontractors;
• Subcontract only with providers that exclusively promote and support childbirth; and
• Ensure informational materials are current and accurate.

The bill states that such services must be provided in a non-coercive manner and may not include any religious content.

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CPCs have come under increased scrutiny over the last several years, as investigations have revealed that centers across the country have provided inaccurate information and neglected to follow proper medical protocols. (Source.)

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Related Legislation

Companion bill to SB 444.

STATUS

Passed the house on January 12, 2018, by a 73-29 vote.

Passed the senate on February 8, 2018, by a 21-12 vote.

Signed by Gov. Rick Scott (R) on March 19, 2018.

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People