SE Atlanta News

State Representative Lauren Daniel (R-Locust Grove) has introduced a legislative package, consisting of House Bills 1036, 1037, and 1038. The proposed legislation aims to address maternal and infant health in the state through measures such as the establishment of a Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health, the implementation of a pregnancy education course in high schools, and the introduction of penalties for reproductive battery by physicians.

According to a press release by the Georgia General Assembly, Daniel said: "Over the last decade, there have been numerous efforts made in the legislature to address maternal mortality in Georgia. However, nationwide, we have seen a rise in maternal health issues such as heart disease, cardiomyopathy, pre-eclampsia, embolism, gestational diabetes and maternal mental health conditions; many of these also lead to consequential health issues in infants."

The same press release outlines that House Bill 1037 proposes the creation of the Georgia Commission on Maternal and Infant Health. This commission would comprise 14 members appointed by the Georgia Department of Public Health. Six members would be appointed by the Governor, three by the Lieutenant Governor, and three by the Speaker of the House. The commission's responsibilities include soliciting input from perinatal facilities and healthcare providers, considering current medical recommendations, making policy recommendations, establishing metrics for perinatal care quality, and submitting statewide policy recommendations by June 30th 2026 to improve perinatal care in Georgia.

The press release further explains that House Bill 1036 mandates that the State Board of Education includes a curriculum on pregnancy health and human development for grades nine through twelve. This curriculum would cover topics such as human biology related to pregnancy and gestational development. In addition to this educational initiative, House Bill 1038 proposes penalties for reproductive battery. These penalties could include felony charges, fines or imprisonment for physicians involved in unauthorized transfer or implantation of human reproductive material.

According to Daniel's campaign website, Daniel, who was elected in 2022, represents District 117 which includes parts of Henry and Spalding counties. She currently serves as Secretary on the Education and State Planning & Community Affairs committees and is also a member of the Transportation Committee in the House of Representatives.