Final answer:
The Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act of 1996 requires a minimum of 48 hours of inpatient stay following a normal vaginal delivery in the U.S.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act of 1996 prohibits a health plan from offering less than 48 hours of inpatient stay following a normal vaginal delivery. This legislation was enacted to ensure that mothers and newborns receive adequate time in the hospital to recover and establish a healthy start post-delivery. It reflects an understanding of the importance of postnatal care and addresses concerns about early hospital discharges due to cost-saving measures by insurance companies.