Summary of HRES 332: Supporting Black Maternal Health Week
Purpose and Intent
HRES 332 is a resolution introduced in the House of Representatives on April 14, 2025, aimed at designating the week of April 11 through April 17, 2025, as the eighth annual "Black Maternal Health Week." This initiative, founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. (BMMA), seeks to raise national awareness about the maternal and reproductive health crisis affecting Black women and birthing people in the United States. The resolution emphasizes the urgent need to address the high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity within this demographic.
Key Provisions
The resolution outlines several critical points regarding the state of maternal health for Black women, including:
Recognition of Disparities: Acknowledges the disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women as unacceptable and unjust.
Call for Systemic Change: Advocates for Congress to address systemic and structural racism by ensuring access to:
- Safe and affordable housing
- Transportation equity
- Nutritious food
- Clean air and water
- Environments free from toxins
- Decriminalization and removal of civil penalties related to maternal health
- Safety from violence, particularly from government actors
- A living wage and equal economic opportunities
- A diverse workforce of perinatal professionals
- Comprehensive, high-quality, and affordable health care, including reproductive care
Support for Policy Frameworks: Encourages policies grounded in human rights, reproductive justice, and birth justice to improve maternal health outcomes.
Inclusion of Black Voices: Stresses the importance of including Black women and birthing people in policy decisions that affect their health and lives.
Legislative Action: Calls for the passage of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act and other related legislation to enhance maternal care and outcomes.
Promotion of Black Maternal Health Week: Highlights the week as an opportunity to:
- Foster national dialogue on Black maternal health
- Amplify community-driven solutions
- Center the voices of Black women and stakeholders
- Enhance community organizing efforts
- Increase funding and support for Black-led organizations and perinatal birth workers
Affected Parties
The resolution primarily impacts Black women and birthing people, as well as healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations focused on maternal health and reproductive justice. It aims to mobilize efforts to improve health outcomes and address systemic inequities.
Procedural Aspects
- Introduced: April 14, 2025
- Referred to Committee: The resolution has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration.
- Related Legislation: There is a companion resolution, SRES 172, which aligns with the objectives of HRES 332.
In summary, HRES 332 seeks to elevate the conversation around Black maternal health, advocate for systemic changes, and support community-led initiatives to improve health outcomes for Black women and birthing people in the United States.
