Skip to main content

Congressmen Veasey (TX-33) and Allred (TX-32) Unveil Legislation To Combat Maternal, Infant Mortality Epidemic

August 22, 2019

Dallas, TX - Today, Congressman Veasey (TX-33) and Congressman Allred (TX-32) joined local public health care experts and advocates to unveil the Baby Box and Maternal Assistance Act of 2019 (H.R. 4201). The new legislation will curb the high maternal and infant mortality rate in Texas and across the United States by creating a grant program to provide states with services like: funding for maternal and infant health classes, boxes containing essentials to assist new parents in caring for their newborn children, and the services of a certified Doula or Midwife.

"The state of Texas--and this district where we stand today--is at the epicenter of this epidemic that is killing new mothers and infants across our country," said Congressman Veasey. "There are an estimated 14 maternal deaths for 100,000 live births in our state, and for black women, it's even worse--they are twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related deaths as white women. Texas also has high casualties among infants, with statistics showing that over 2,000 infants died in just 2017 alone. This legislation will lower these staggering numbers by giving needed resources to new and expectant mothers and infants."

Image
MV Baby Pox Presser


"As a new father, I know how critical it is that new parents and their babies get the care and resources they need," said Congressman Allred. "This bill takes an important step forward in helping to ensure young parents can get a helping hand and basic information and support, all while working to reduce the infant and maternal mortality rate. I thank Congressman Veasey for leading on this effort and I look forward to working together with folks in both parties to get something done on this important issue."

To watch today's full press conference, visit here.