BC MLA Jody Toor’s Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Bill Makes History with Unanimous Support in Second Reading

In a historic moment for British Columbia, MLA Jody Toor’s Private Member’s Bill, the Perinatal and Postnatal Mental Health Strategy Act (Bill M 204), has become the first Private Member’s Bill in 43 years to pass second reading with unanimous support in a recorded vote.

With 91 MLAs present in the House out of 93 total members, every single vote was cast in favour of this bill, demonstrating the broad, nonpartisan support for prioritizing perinatal and postnatal mental health care.

Bill M 204 seeks to integrate perinatal and postnatal mental health care into B.C.’s healthcare system, ensuring that mothers and families have access to the critical resources they need during and after pregnancy.

“This is a monumental step forward for women, families, and communities across our province,” said MLA Jody Toor. “Too many mothers suffer in silence, believing they have to navigate postpartum mental health struggles alone. This bill is about making sure no woman feels isolated or unsupported during one of the most critical times in her life. I am incredibly grateful to my colleagues for recognizing the urgency of this issue and coming together in support of this bill.”

The debate over this bill was deeply personal and emotional, with MLAs from all parties sharing their own experiences with perinatal and postnatal mental health struggles, as well as the challenges their partners, families, friends, and constituents have faced.

“This debate was unlike any other. Members on both sides of the House shared deeply personal, emotional, and at times heartbreaking experiences,” said Conservative House Leader MLA Á’a:líya Warbus.

“It speaks to the importance of this bill and to Jody’s character—she is a fierce advocate, a compassionate leader, and someone who truly cares about the people she serves. Jody is the kind of person who doesn’t just talk about change—she puts in the work, listens to those in need, and fights to make life better for British Columbians. Our province is better because of her leadership, and this bill is proof of that.”

The unanimous support for Bill M 204 reflects a shared commitment to addressing perinatal and postnatal mental health and ensuring that no parent feels alone in this journey.

We are pleased to see all members of the Legislature recognize the importance of this issue and come together to support this bill. We look forward to continued collaboration with the government to ensure Bill M 204 moves forward and is fully enacted. This is an opportunity to deliver real change for families in British Columbia, and we encourage all parties to maintain this momentum.