Bill > HR426

This resolution urges the Georgia General Assembly to create a Black Maternal Health Caucus in response to significant maternal and infant health disparities, particularly affecting Black women and infants. The resolution highlights alarming statistics, including the United States having one of the highest maternal mortality rates among high-income countries, with approximately 700-900 pregnancy-related deaths annually, and an estimated 80% of these deaths being preventable. In Georgia specifically, Black women are almost three times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than non-Hispanic white women, and the state has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country. The resolution emphasizes that racism and racial bias in healthcare systems contribute to these disparities, and notes that chronic health conditions and limited access to quality prenatal and postpartum care exacerbate the problem. By establishing a dedicated legislative caucus, the resolution aims to create a framework for researching, developing, and recommending evidence-based policies to improve maternal health outcomes and raise awareness about the systemic challenges facing Black women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70941