A bill to authorize appropriations for data collection, surveillance, and research on maternal health outcomes during public health emergencies, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · May 18, 2026
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.
This bill requires the CDC to launch public health education campaigns during emergencies to provide pregnant and postpartum individuals, employers, and healthcare providers with accurate information about maternal and infant health risks, with special focus on reaching underserved communities. The legislation expands the definition of maternal mortality to include deaths from suicide, overdose, and mental health or substance use disorders occurring within one year after pregnancy, and extends the postpartum period to one full year. The bill also establishes definitions for perinatal health workers, including nonclinical support providers like doulas and community health workers, and defines respectful maternity care as culturally appropriate care that maintains dignity, prevents harm, and supports informed decision-making. These provisions aim to improve maternal health outcomes and information access during public health crises.
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