While the New York State Legislature unfortunately closed this session without passing the Maternal Health, Dignity, and Consent Act, our collective resolve has only grown stronger. This vital legislation—which protects bodily autonomy by ensuring no perinatal person or newborn is drug tested without explicit informed consent—remains a cornerstone for racial and reproductive justice. NY Midwives, alongside dedicated birth advocates, will continue to organize, educate, and fight into the new year to ensure every birthing person can seek medical care with dignity and without fear.
