National survey of the states: policies and practices regarding drug-using pregnant women

Abstract

Objectives: This study assessed the impact of national policy shifts on state policies and practices regarding substance-using mothers.

Methods: A 1995 telephone survey of substance abuse and child protective services directors in all 50 states and the District of Columbia was compared with a similar 1992 survey.

Results: There have been significant increases in state interventions for drug-using pregnant women (e.g., criminal prosecution, toxicology testing of women and neonates). Federal resources for treatment and oversight are being replaced by state control of reduced funds for treatment.

Conclusions: The earlier policy of expanding treatment for addicted women is being replaced by reduction of services and increased state intervention.