House Resolution No. ___, introduced by a group of representatives on January 23, 2025, seeks to designate January 23 as "Maternal Health Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania. This resolution aims to honor the women who lose their lives due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. It highlights the alarming rise in pregnancy-related deaths in the United States, despite advancements in medical science, with a particular emphasis on the disproportionate impact on Black women, who face significantly higher mortality rates. The resolution references the establishment of the Maternal Mortality Review Committee in Pennsylvania, which was created to investigate these deaths and develop strategies to reduce maternal mortality rates.
The resolution calls for increased public and professional awareness regarding maternal health issues and encourages community engagement in activities that promote maternal safety and health. By designating a specific day for this cause, the resolution aims to foster discussions and initiatives that address the critical issue of maternal mortality, particularly among vulnerable populations. The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to improve maternal health outcomes and underscores the importance of collective action in addressing this public health crisis.