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Bill

HCR 109

RECOGNIZING THE WEEK OF APRIL 11 THROUGH APRIL 17, 2026, AS "BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK" IN DELAWARE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Darius Brown and 25 co-sponsors

Designates April 11–17, 2026 as Black Maternal Health Awareness Week in Delaware to raise awareness and encourage education, advocacy, and observance.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 19 YES 2 ABSENT
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HCR 109

Summary of HCR 109 (Session 153) – Delaware

Title

Recognizing the Week of April 11 through April 17, 2026, as “Black Maternal Health Awareness Week” in Delaware.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill formally designates a specific week in April 2026 as Black Maternal Health Awareness Week in the state.
  • The goal is to recognize and raise awareness about Black maternal health issues, disparities, and the importance of maternal health equity.

Key Provisions

  • Declares April 11–17, 2026, as Black Maternal Health Awareness Week in Delaware.
  • Encourages state agencies, organizations, and residents to observe the week and promote awareness, education, and advocacy related to Black maternal health.
  • Serves as a formal expression of the Legislature’s support for addressing disparities in maternal health outcomes affecting Black women.

Affected Parties and Impact

  • Black women and families in Delaware who are affected by maternal health disparities.
  • State government and relevant agencies are invited to participate in observance efforts (education campaigns, events, and outreach).
  • Nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, community groups, and educational institutions may leverage the designation to advocate for improved maternal health services and policies.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and passage occurred in April 2026.
  • The bill was introduced in the House on April 14, 2026, and passed the House by voice vote on the same day.
  • It also passed the Senate on April 14, 2026, with a recorded vote of 19 Yes, 2 Absent.
  • As a concurrent resolution (HCR), it does not create new law or funding but expresses the Sense of the Legislature and designates observance.

Sponsorship

  • Primary and co-sponsors include a broad list of legislators, reflecting cross-party and cross- chamber support.
  • Notable co-sponsors: Ed Osienski and a diverse slate of members representing various districts.

Summary Assessment

  • HCR 109 is a symbolic measure aimed at elevating awareness of Black maternal health issues in Delaware.
  • It explicitly designates a week for awareness and invites observation and educational activities, without modifying statutes or allocating funds.
  • The resolution signals legislative commitment to addressing maternal health disparities and can catalyze related public outreach and partnerships across state and community groups.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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