The State Senate has passed Senator Republican Leader Tom Kean’s (R-21) legislation establishing “Doula Appreciation Week,” in recognition of the support and dedication these professionals provide for mothers and babies in New Jersey.

“Doulas provide comfort and care to new moms and babies before, during, and after birth,” Kean said. “Studies show that working with a doula can prevent many labor complications, resulting in healthier and happier outcomes for both mother and child. These invaluable professionals are true lifesavers, whose compassion and expertise are leading to smoother progressions from pregnancy to parenthood.”

Kean’s bipartisan resolution, SJR-120, would establish ‘Doula Appreciation Week’ from March 22nd to March 28th of each year. Doulas are trained birth coaches who assist during all aspects of pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. While doctors are primarily focused on clinical care, doulas provide physical comfort and emotional assistance.

This legislation supplements a comprehensive bipartisan bill package sponsored by Senator Tom Kean, Senator Joe Vitale, Senator Bob Singer, and Senator Ron Rice to improve maternal, prenatal, and newborn healthcare Statewide.

New Jersey has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation, especially for African American women.

“Doulas play a vital role in saving the lives of mothers and babies nationwide,” added Kean. “Raising awareness and highlighting the importance of doulas will hopefully encourage more moms-to-be to work with a doula, so we can make progress on our overarching goal to decrease the maternal mortality rate and ensure all New Jersey women receive the quality care they deserve. I urge Governor Murphy to sign our bipartisan maternal health legislation package into law as soon as possible.”