The "Parental Perinatal Mental Health Screening and Education Act" aims to enhance the mental health support available to expectant parents and parents of newborns in South Carolina. The bill mandates that healthcare providers and licensed healthcare facilities offer voluntary perinatal mental health screenings during the prenatal period and at postpartum follow-up visits. It also requires these entities to provide educational materials on postpartum depression and mental health resources at no cost, ensuring accessibility for individuals with limited English proficiency. The act emphasizes that participation in screenings is voluntary and must be documented, while also protecting the confidentiality of the screening results.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and other state agencies to develop guidance, standardized educational materials, and training resources for healthcare providers. It allows for Medicaid reimbursement for perinatal mental health services and establishes protections for healthcare providers against liability when offering screenings and referrals. The act does not create a private right of action against healthcare providers or state agencies, and it will take effect upon the Governor's approval. The existing sections of the law are reorganized, with Sections 44-37-10 to 44-37-70 being designated as Article 1, "General Provisions."

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 44-37-10
Latest Version: 44-37-10