Safe Pregnancy, Delivery, and Postpartum Care for Youth at DYRS Amendment Act of 2025

More pregnancy care for detained DC youth

DC’s Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) must make pregnancy tests available to youth who may become pregnant. Tests must be available at admission and when a doctor requires a baseline test before prescribing recommended medicine. This requirement does not mandate testing. After confirming a detained youth’s pregnancy, DYRS must explain pregnancy policies aloud or in writing. Pregnant youth in DYRS care must receive private, timely, complete care that respects their culture, from DC-licensed maternal health providers. Care includes pregnancy and postpartum treatment, needed specialized care, and counseling on family planning, prenatal care, birth control, test results, and pregnancy-related mental health. Outside referrals for needed specialized care must follow the existing law governing restraints. After birth, provider contact is required within 3 weeks, with ongoing care as needed and a full visit by 12 weeks. Medical, health, and personal-care supplies are free when a treating licensed provider prescribes or recommends them, or the youth reasonably requests them. These include nursing bras, breast pumps, milk storage bags, detergent, bottle brushes, drying racks, a large enough refrigerator, and a cooler. DYRS must also provide a free diet required by its policy or medically recommended during pregnancy or postpartum.