Post-partum depression; to provide for education and assessment

HB 322 requires Alabama healthcare providers to assess new mothers for postpartum depression during routine postnatal care and mandates the Alabama Department of Public Health to create plain-language educational materials about the condition for both providers and new parents. The bill directly affects new mothers (through mandatory screening), healthcare providers (who must conduct assessments), and hospitals (which can distribute the materials). Key provisions include developing materials on signs/symptoms and treatment resources, requiring assessment as part of standard care, and protecting providers from liability for following these guidelines. The law takes effect October 1, 2025, and does not change existing medical standards or liability laws.