This bill proposes amendments to the North Dakota Century Code regarding the reporting requirements for prenatal and postpartum exposure to controlled substances and alcohol. It introduces a new section that exempts individuals from reporting postpartum substance abuse if they are providing or collaborating on health care services for the woman or her infant. However, if the woman discontinues care or continues substance abuse, the reporting obligation is reinstated. Additionally, the bill amends existing sections to include alcohol misuse alongside controlled substances in the reporting requirements and clarifies the conditions under which toxicology tests may be administered to pregnant women and newborns.

Furthermore, the bill repeals section 50-25.1-18, which previously addressed reporting requirements for prenatal alcohol misuse. The amendments emphasize the importance of health care collaboration while ensuring that necessary reporting occurs if a woman fails to engage in treatment or care. The changes aim to balance the need for reporting substance abuse with the provision of supportive health care services.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 50-25.1-16, 50-25.1-17, 50-25.1-18