LD1 Lawmakers to Murphy: Make Families a Priority

Call for Eased COVID Restrictions so Expectant Mothers Can Have Support of Spouse at Prenatal Doctors’ Visits

Citing the benefit of promoting strong family bonds between mother, father and child, Senator Mike Testa and Assemblymen Erik Simonsen and Antwan McClellan today urged the Governor to relax COVID restrictions and allow expectant women to be joined by a spouse or partner at prenatal ultrasound and OBGYN appointments.

The LD1 lawmakers released the following statement:

“Women can benefit from the presence and support of the father during emotional moments fraught with fear, anxiety, excitement and joy. Many obstetric professionals cite a link between the fraternal participation and improved outcomes for the expectant mother and her child.

“We have seen more than enough evidence that medical facilities can safely function without risking the spread of COVID. The same procedures that protect patients and healthcare workers can ensure partners, without risk, can join their loved ones for potentially life changing testing and consultations.

“Ideally, both expectant parents should be working as a team to welcome a newborn into their lives, and the cooperative support is even more crucial if medical challenges arise.

“Current COVID restrictions are robbing expectant mothers of a vital source of love and strength when they need it most. It is time to put family first, and ease off the prohibition.”