In 2023, an estimated six out of every 1,000 babies died before their first birthday in Pennsylvania alone. A majority of these deaths were due to prematurity, preterm birth complications, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, Black infants are 3.2 times more likely to die from SIDS or by the impacts of maternal complications from pregnancy than White infants.
 
Each infant mortality is one too many and one we must prevent. For these reasons, I will be introducing a resolution to recognize September 2025 as “Infant Mortality Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.
 
Health disparities, including the lack of affordable healthcare, maternal care, prenatal care, birthing centers, and financial challenges, contribute to the infant mortality rate. Furthermore, Black mothers are twice as likely to receive late or no prenatal care, which can be detrimental to an infant’s life.
 
The loss of a child is an unimaginable grief that no parent should have to bear. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important resolution to spread awareness and show support to grieving families across the Commonwealth.