The House Concurrent Resolution designates April 2025 as Black Maternal Care Awareness Month in Vermont, highlighting the alarming disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes for Black women compared to other racial groups. Citing a Commonwealth Fund study, the resolution notes that the United States has the highest maternal death rate among high-income nations, with Black women experiencing significantly higher rates of maternal mortality (50.5 per 100,000 live births) and infant mortality (10.93 per 1,000 live births) than their non-Hispanic White counterparts. Additionally, the resolution points out the higher prevalence of mental health issues during pregnancy among Black women and the lack of access to comprehensive prenatal care and health insurance as contributing factors to these disparities.

To raise awareness and address these critical issues, the resolution aligns with the Black Mamas Matter Alliance's annual observance of Black Maternal Health Week, which takes place from April 11-17. The resolution calls for the General Assembly to officially recognize April 2025 as Black Maternal Care Awareness Month in Vermont and directs the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, emphasizing the importance of addressing racial inequities in maternal health outcomes.