Anne Arundel Today

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) – a founding Member of the Black Maternal Health Caucus – joined Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14), and Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12) in reintroducing the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act as a solution to our nation’s maternal health crisis and to address every driver of maternal mortality, morbidity, and disparities in the United States.  

The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income country. Data from the CDC shows that maternal deaths in recent years have increased dramatically by 40%; however, more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. The Momnibus is a package of thirteen evidence-based bills that address the root causes of this crisis. 

“As a founding Member of Congress' Black Maternal Health Caucus, I am glad that we are taking the necessary steps to get mothers the care they need. It is unacceptable that the United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income country, and that Black women in America are up to four times more likely to die from preventable pregnancy-related complications,” Congressman Hoyer said. “That's why I joined my colleagues in reintroducing this essential piece of health care legislation – a crucial step toward bringing an end to this unacceptable crisis.”

“To save moms’ lives and end the maternal health crisis in our country, we need urgent action,” said Rep. Underwood. “We know what’s needed to end this crisis, and the tools to get it done are within reach. The Momnibus is the solution, and I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Representative Alma Adams and Senator Cory Booker to make the investments we need to solve our country’s maternal health crisis.”

“Maternal mortality and morbidity rates in the United States are unacceptable, and far higher than in other wealthy countries. The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2023 addresses this urgent crisis that affects thousands of American parents every year,” said Rep. Adams, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus. “As many as 80% of maternal deaths are preventable with proper care and treatment. The Momnibus makes over $1 billion in historic investments in the health and care of moms. It is nothing short of a game-changer for Black mothers as well as every parent bringing a child into the world. Now more than ever, it is critical we pass the Momnibus and make sure no child grows up without a parent. As a Black mother and grandmother, take it from me: Black mamas can't wait!”

“The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of industrialized nations, and the rate is only rising. The data is even more concerning for Black moms,” said Senator Booker. “No one deserves to be left behind by the health care system or face inadequate care during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. This legislation is a critical step towards saving lives, ending disparities in health care and outcomes, and ensuring our health care system treats all moms with the care and dignity they deserve regardless of their race or circumstance. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill that would address the drivers of the maternal health crisis, invest in social determinants of health, and ensure comprehensive support for all people. It's time to prioritize the well-being of all, eliminate racial and ethnic disparities for Black and Brown moms, and create a brighter and healthier future for all families.” 

A one-page summary of the Momnibus, including a list of the 181 original House cosponsors, can be found here, and additional information about the individual bills in the Momnibus can be found on the Black Maternal Health Caucus website.

A list of more than 200 organizations endorsing the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act can be found here.

Original source can be found here.