Massachusetts is considering significantly expanding a program that funds nurse visits to families with newborns. This has brought back questions first raised by Phyllis Schlafly in a 1999 column. She asked if Americans would allow government agents to enter their homes to advise on baby care.
The state’s governor, Maura Healey, seeks $2 million to enhance the Welcome Family program. Currently, the program serves around 3,000 births yearly. The expansion aims to offer visits after approximately 68,000 births state-wide.
Phyllis Schlafly’s warning resurfaced amidst news of the Lindsay Clancy case, which highlighted maternal mental health issues. Clancy’s case involved the killing of her three children, leading to a mistrial due to postpartum psychosis claims.
Anne Schlafly, Phyllis’s daughter, noted her mother’s foresight regarding government intrusion in family life. Phyllis Schlafly emphasized that the home is a personal space, free from government interference.
“After all, the home is our castle,” Schlafly stated.
Programs like Healthy Families America were previously scrutinized by Schlafly for potentially overstepping in screening and advising families.
Healey envisions nurse visits as voluntary support checks for families with newborns, offering health assessments and resources. Massachusetts labels Welcome Family as voluntary, focusing on health assessments, mental health screenings, and safety advice.
Anne Schlafly expressed concerns about genuine consent post-childbirth, questioning if parents fully understand the voluntary nature of these visits.
Massachusetts touts the program’s successes but emphasizes that participation remains voluntary. Officials highlight the program’s impact, with numerous postpartum depression screenings leading to referrals for support services.
Anne Schlafly mentioned that accepting government assistance is a parent’s choice. However, making such programs compulsory changes their nature.
“The only way this program could be acceptable is if parents can opt out at any time,” Schlafly stated.
State published materials maintain that participation is voluntary, reassuring concerned parents.
Jasmine Baehr, reporting for Fox News Digital, notes that Massachusetts reportedly allows parents to decline nurse visits. However, this proposal continues to stir debate over government presence in private homes.
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