S.Res.172 - Supporting the designation of the week of April 11 through April 17, 2025, as the eighth annual Black Maternal Health Week, founded by Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc., to bring national attention to the maternal and reproductive health crisis in the United States and the importance of reducing maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women and birthing people. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 172 aims to designate April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week. This resolution seeks to raise national awareness about the maternal health crisis affecting Black women and birthing people in the United States. It highlights disparities in maternal mortality and morbidity rates, emphasizing the need for solutions.
Expected Effects
The resolution's passage would likely lead to increased public discourse and awareness campaigns focused on Black maternal health. It could also encourage further legislative action and funding allocations towards addressing the identified disparities. Ultimately, it aims to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of Black maternal health disparities.
- Potential for increased funding for community-based organizations and perinatal birth workers.
- Promotion of policies that support affordable and comprehensive maternal healthcare.
- Encouragement of culturally congruent models of care.
- Empowerment of Black women and birthing people in policy decisions.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution itself does not guarantee concrete legislative or funding changes.
- Potential for political polarization if the issue becomes overly politicized.
- Limited immediate impact without follow-up actions.
- Risk of performative activism without meaningful change.
- Possible resistance from groups opposing reproductive health initiatives.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. While the Constitution does not explicitly address healthcare, the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause is relevant, as the resolution seeks to address disparities affecting a specific group. Additionally, arguments can be made connecting reproductive health to individual liberty, though this is a contested area of constitutional interpretation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).