From ABC:
NJ Gov. Jon Corzine today signed a bill aimed at helping women with postpartum depression.
Advocates said the measure, which requires health professionals to screen new mothers for pospartum depression and funds an education campaign about the disorder, is the first of its kind in the nation.
“The birth of a child is a time for celebration, but also a time for concern as 80 percent of women in New Jersey experience some form of depression after giving birth, Corzine said at a bill signing ceremony at Hackensack University Medical Center. This new law will make postpartum depression screening a requirement rather than an option, and thats a significant and positive step for New Jerseys mothers, newborns and families.
Corzine was joined at the ceremony by former Gov. Richard Codey and his wife, Mary Jo, who raised awareness of the dangers of postpartum depression as first lady.
“I know, first-hand, the grief caused by postpartum depression and it is not something that any woman should have to suffer alone in silence.” said Richard Codey, who is state Senate President.
No word on whether the state will be paying for therapy.