The Kira Johnson Act aims to reduce maternal deaths and severe complications among Black women and other underserved groups by funding community programs and training healthcare workers to eliminate bias and racism in maternity care. The bill authorizes $100 million annually from 2027 to 2031 for grants to community-based organizations that provide evidence-based maternal health services, including prenatal care, mental health support, and midwifery programs in high-need areas. An additional $5 million per year (2027-2031) supports training programs for all hospital maternity staff to address implicit bias, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care practices. The legislation also establishes compliance programs at hospitals to report and respond to instances of bias or discrimination, requires studies on program effectiveness, and mandates annual progress reports to Congress. The bill specifically prioritizes funding for organizations led by and serving communities with elevated maternal mortality rates and directs the Government Accountability Office to track implementation progress nationwide.
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