On the recordJuly 20, 2023
Madam Speaker, the United States is experiencing a maternal health crisis. This country has the highest maternal mortality rate among all developed nations, disproportionately impacting women of color, women in rural areas, and low-income women. Yet, according to the CDC, 60 percent of these deaths are preventable. Let me say that again: 60 percent of maternal deaths in the U.S. are preventable. That is unacceptable. Healthy mothers and healthy babies must be a priority for this country. That is why I reintroduced my Advancing Maternal Health Equity Under Medicaid Act so that all people with Medicaid coverage can get the access and the care they need during and after pregnancy. I encourage all my colleagues to support this critical legislation to help reduce the stark racial, ethnic, and income-based disparities in healthcare outcomes and save lives. ____________________
