Using information from a literature review and members of two congressional committees, the analysis focused on existing and pending laws relating to cocaine mothers and whether treatment or criminalization is the preferred method of dealing with these mothers. The analysis concluded that despite the well-publicized outrage over crack babies, public health organizations have become increasingly outspoken in their opposition to the prosecution of cocaine- addicted pregnant women. However, any actions by criminal justice authorities require the cooperation and support of health care providers. Therefore, instead of simple criminalization, a more comprehensive and complex policy is needed to address not just the social problems involved for cocaine-abusing pregnant women, but also the multiple health care problems of all childbearing women. Drastic action toward cocaine mothers at the same time that laws seldom mention alcoholic mothers and those exposed to toxic environmental substances exemplifies the public outlook toward personal responsibility and the general fear and loathing of pregnant females who abuse crack cocaine. A broader perspective is in society's greater interest. 21 references