Assemblyman Brian Curran (Lynbrook-21^st A.D) announced he is supporting three proposals aimed at helping new mothers. The first proposal would add an additional $1.2 million appropriation for the Prenatal Care Assistance Program (PCAP), for a total appropriation of $3.035 million. This program helps expecting mothers access comprehensive prenatal care.

            “For expecting mothers, accessing quality prenatal care is a necessity for not only the mother but for the child as well, increasing funding to the PCAP program will show we take the health and wellness of both mother and baby very seriously. I cannot fathom not supporting this proposal,” said Curran.

            The second proposal would increase access to diapers for low-income families by including $1.5 million to increase the capacity of diaper banks across the state and fund a quarterly diaper allowance for those on public assistance with a child through the age of two.

            “As a father myself, I can personally attest to the fact the cost of diapers can add up quickly, and no child should be forced to go without them for any reason, allowing this greater access to diapers is just common sense,” said Curran.

            The third proposal would expand paid family leave benefits to those who have a spouse, child or parent on active duty in the military or have been notified of an impending call to active duty. Current state law only allows for paid family leave when the service member is on deployment to a foreign country.

            “We always say we support our brave service members in everything they do, well now we actually have the chance to prove it. No one should be forced through a financial hardship with a newborn child, especially not our military families. We need to do the right thing and make sure they are looked after while their loved one is serving our country,” concluded Curran.