(The Center Square) — Gov. Brian Kemp has signed into law a bill that would allow nonprofits to offer pregnant and postpartum women “motherhood support homes” and resources free of charge.
Under Senate bill 116Known as Betsy’s law, local governments cannot restrict these residences or impose occupancy requirements on them unless those restrictions apply to a residence with a single family living there, according to a press release.
Supportive maternal homes — a home that can accommodate up to six pregnant women who are at least 18 years old and their minor children during their pregnancy and up to 18 months after childbirth — must register with the Georgia Department of and have a Human Services (DHS) pay annual fee and have written admissions and admissions policies. They must also comply with local building codes, have property insurance and have access to comprehensive services.
“SB 116 will help us support Georgia mothers and their newborns by ensuring that free housing and all-round resources for pregnant and postpartum women in need are readily available and that local regulations do not impede these needed services,” Kemp said in an announcement. “Betsy’s law has a significant history, and I appreciate everyone who worked with members of the Georgia General Assembly to bring this law to my desk for signature.”
The measure comes amid a nationwide renewal debate on abortion, which was heated at times. This week, a leaked draft US Supreme Court ruling added fuel to the fire and could open the door for Georgia to reintroduce its “fetal heartbeat” legislation.
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