Kosierowski introduces legislation to expand home visiting support for new and expecting mothers

HARRISBURG, March 6 – State Rep. Bridget M. Kosierowski, D-Lackawanna, today introduced legislation that would expand maternal home visits to give new parents the tools they need to ensure their children grow up healthy.

Motherhood is already challenging for those who know where their next meal is coming from, have secure housing, are financially stable, and have the support of family and friends. But what about the mothers who don’t, where do they turn?” Kosierowski said. “This bill will help our kids and save money in the long run by providing better health outcomes and improved child development.”

House Bill 2335 would direct the Department of Health to create a plan to make maternal home visits available to every parent who needs or wants them. Federal dollars would be used to support the program. It would also set up strict accountability and evaluation standards to know these infants and parents are getting the best possible care and attention.

Maternal home visits bring in professionals like nurses and social workers to provide additional support to families or single parents, babies facing medical issues, or parents struggling with limited resources.

The bill is awaiting referral to a committee.