PBMHC applauds Shapiro’s proposals for investments in maternal health care

Rep. Morgan B. Cephas    February 7, 2024 | 3:22 PM

HARRISBURG, Feb. 7 – Today, the co-chairs of the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus, state Reps. Morgan Cephas, D-Phila.; Gina H. Curry, D-Delaware; and La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny, issued the following statement in response to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s state budget proposal:

“Governor Shapiro’s proposed investments present an opportunity to address maternal mortality, especially among Black mothers and families, and ensure students have access to menstrual products.

“By increasing investments in maternal health care, we can continue to expand measures to address the maternal morbidity and mortality crisis. With the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council reporting the highest severe maternal morbidity rates for Black, non-Hispanic patients, we must act now to address racial disparities in health care. More so, by ensuring students have access to menstrual products at school, we guarantee that students can continue their education without interruption.

“We applaud the governor for working with us to address this crisis so we may ensure all Pennsylvanians have access to equitable health care of the highest quality.”

Shapiro’s proposal includes $2.5 million to reduce maternal morbidity, which is a priority of the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus.

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