An analysis using child welfare data from eight states finds that mothers of Black newborns are referred to law enforcement more often than mothers of White newborns over allegations of pregnancy drug use. Multiple outlets report that the referrals frequently stem from drug tests conducted in hospitals at or around childbirth. The testing results are described as often unverified, with some accounts pointing to issues with reliability and the limited ability of hospitals and agencies to confirm whether substances were actually used during pregnancy. The reports say these referrals can lead child welfare systems to involve police based on the initial test findings, even when allegations are not supported by confirmed evidence. One outlet cites roughly 14,000 cases in which Black families are flagged to law enforcement, emphasizing that the referrals are tied to allegations that begin with hospital testing rather than proven substance use. The findings highlight racial disparities in how pregnancy-related substance concerns are escalated to law enforcement through child welfare processes and raise questions about the role of drug testing and verification standards.