| Sponsor | Rep. Rush, Bobby L. |
| Committee | Energy and Commerce |
| Date | March 30, 2009 (111th Congress, 1st Session) |
| Staff Contact | Christopher Jacobs |
H.R. 20 is being considered under suspension of the rules, requiring a two-thirds vote for passage. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Bobby Rush (D-IL) on January 6, 2009.
H.R. 20 would encourage the Secretary of Health and Human Services to continue basic and clinical research, as well as informational and educational activities, related to postpartum depression. The bill also authorizes a new program of grants to eligible entities (including state and local governments and non-profit organizations) to foster the establishment of systems to deliver services to individuals and families with postpartum depression. The bill authorizes $3 million in Fiscal Year 2009, and "such sums" as necessary in Fiscal 2010 and 2011.
On October 15, 2007, the House passed a similar bill (H.R. 20) by a 382-3 vote. The Senate never considered the legislation.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, implementation of H.R. 20 would cost less than $500,000 in Fiscal 2009, and $9 million over five years.