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Bill

HR 161

SPECIAL DAY/WEEK/MONTH: Designates April 11-17, 2026, as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joy Walters

Designates April 11-17, 2026 as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana to raise awareness and support equity-driven maternal health initiatives.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
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Bill Summary · HR 161

Summary of HR 161 (Louisiana) – 2026 Regular Session

Title

Special Day/Week/Month designation: Designates April 11-17, 2026 as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana

Purpose and Intent

  • Designates a specific observance period in Louisiana (April 11-17, 2026) as Black Maternal Health Week.
  • Aims to raise awareness about Black maternal health disparities, honor community leadership, and recommit to policies and investments that promote safe, respectful, and equitable maternal healthcare for Black mothers.

Key Provisions

  • Official designation: April 11-17, 2026 is designated as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana.

  • Recitals and statements included in the resolution acknowledge:

    • The leadership and goals of Black Maternal Health Week (founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance).
    • The ongoing disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality affecting Black women in the U.S. and in Louisiana.
    • The role of social determinants of health (prenatal/postpartum care access, insurance, transportation, provider bias) in maternal outcomes.
    • The protective role of culturally competent, community-centered care models (including doulas, midwives, community health workers).
    • The importance of public-private partnerships, data-driven strategies, and accountability in advancing maternal health equity.

  • Policy orientation (non-binding):

    • The resolution commits to supporting policies, programs, and partnerships that reduce maternal health disparities.
    • Encourages expansion of access to high-quality, culturally competent care for all mothers in Louisiana.
    • Encourages data-driven strategies and innovative care delivery models to improve outcomes and strengthen accountability within the state’s maternal health system.

Who or What Would Be Affected

  • State government and public policymakers in Louisiana, particularly entities involved in health policy, maternal and child health programs, and health equity initiatives.
  • Louisiana-based healthcare providers, doulas, midwives, and community health workers.
  • Community-based organizations and advocacy groups focused on maternal health and Black health equity.
  • General public awareness and education efforts during Black Maternal Health Week observances in Louisiana.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Status: The bill is a concurrent resolution (non-binding), designated as HR 161.
  • Action history indicates a routine step of “Read by title” with further procedural consideration under the rules.
  • No fiscal impact, regulatory changes, or statutory amendments are proposed; the act serves as a commemorative designation and policy expression.

Impact and Implications

  • Primarily a symbolic/educational impact, elevating awareness of Black maternal health disparities in Louisiana and recognizing organizations and individuals working to improve outcomes.
  • Signals legislative support for equity-focused maternal health initiatives and potential alignment with future policies, programs, or funding aimed at reducing maternal morbidity and mortality among Black women.
  • May influence public perception and community mobilization around maternal health, prenatal/postpartum care access, and culturally competent care delivery.

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

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