When a newborn displays the effects of prenatal drug use or fetal alcohol disorder, should health care providers be required to inform the government?
House Bill 245, introduced by the Department of Human Resources says yes.
I awaited the next question.
“Shouldn’t we determine if the mother is an abuser when the child is still in the womb?” asked one of my colleagues.
I tried to make the point that doctors and health departments encourage pregnant women to avoid drugs and alcohol.
Then I spoke of the substance abuse treatment offered to women when they apply for welfare benefits and upon their annual renewal visit. I helped create and fund that treatment option.
I also emailed a pro-choice lobbyist.
—-
Michael Phelps took some batting practice swings at the Orioles spring training camp today, wearing an orange Orioles jersey with No. 18 on the back.
“Hey, that’s my number!” I emailed some friends.
I wear 18 because like Brooks Robinson and Reggie Jackson, I was born on May 18.
I don’t know when Michael Phelps was born, but he won 18 gold medals.
