Summary of Senate Resolution 172 (SRES 172)
Purpose and Intent
This Senate resolution supports the designation of April 11-17, 2025 as the eighth annual "Black Maternal Health Week". The resolution aims to bring national attention to the maternal and reproductive health crisis facing Black women and birthing people in the United States, and the importance of reducing maternal mortality and morbidity rates in this population.
Key Provisions
- Designates the week of April 11-17, 2025 as "Black Maternal Health Week"
- Recognizes the work of the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. in founding this annual observance
- Calls on the federal government, states, localities, and individuals to observe and support the week through appropriate programs and activities
Affected Stakeholders
- Black women and birthing people in the United States, who experience significantly higher rates of maternal mortality and morbidity compared to other racial/ethnic groups
- Maternal and reproductive healthcare providers, public health organizations, and policymakers focused on addressing racial disparities in maternal health outcomes
- The general public, to raise awareness about the Black maternal health crisis
Timeline and Procedure
- This is a Senate resolution, which means it is a legislative measure expressing the Senate's position on an issue
- If passed, the resolution would officially designate April 11-17, 2025 as "Black Maternal Health Week"
- The resolution has a companion bill (HRES 332) introduced in the House of Representatives
Overall, this resolution seeks to elevate national attention and support for efforts to address the urgent maternal health crisis facing Black women and birthing people in the United States.
