Lawmakers demand more action after shocking testimony
Testimony underscores disparities for Black moms, need for legislation
Rep. La'Tasha D. Mayes April 14, 2026 | 3:30 PM
HARRISBURG, April 14 – After being discharged from the hospital while in labor, Mercedes Wells shared how she gave birth along a road in a Chevrolet Silverado after her health concerns were dismissed by health care professionals.
At a House Majority Policy Committee hearing hosted by the Black Maternal Health Caucus, lawmakers highlighted the disparate outcomes facing Black mothers, who are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white mothers.
“This is not a hearing about a single point of failure,” said state Rep. Morgan Cephas, who co-chairs the Black Maternal Health Caucus and represents portions of Philadelphia. “This hearing amplifies the layered challenges across the entire continuum of maternal care—from implicit bias in clinical settings to limited access to prenatal and postpartum services to maternity care deserts in too many communities. The challenges are systemic. No family in Pennsylvania should be forced to worry about losing their life due to pregnancy complications or living with lasting effects because of a failed system.”
A recording of the hearing’s livestream can be found here.
“Black mothers face higher risks, and that is unacceptable,” said state Rep. Gina H. Curry, who co-chairs the Black Maternal Health Caucus and represents portions of Delaware County. “We need a fundamental shift in how the health care system listens to its patients and cares for Black mothers before, during, and after pregnancy. Every mother deserves safe, respectful, and high-quality care. The time to act is now.”
The CEO at the hospital that discharged Wells acknowledged she was discharged moments before giving birth, publicly apologized, promised policy changes and cultural competency training for staff, and noted a doctor and a nurse lost their jobs.
“Black moms are not always heard, and too often, the consequences can be tragic and deadly,” said state Rep. La’Tasha D. Mayes, who co-chairs the Black Maternal Health Caucus and represents portions of Allegheny County. “Until all lawmakers prioritize targeted legislation, this crisis will continue. That’s why I am introducing the Pennsylvania WELLS Act to keep hospitals accountable for the care they provide.”
The PA Momnibus 2.0 is a comprehensive legislative package consisting of 12 bills, including five bills that have already passed the House.
“Today’s hearing is about ensuring every mother is heard, respected, and cared for throughout her pregnancy and beyond,” said PA House Democratic Policy Committee Chairman Ryan Bizzarro, who represents portions of Erie County. “We have the tools to make a difference and the legislation to save lives.”
More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. are preventable, according to the CDC, recognizing the importance of warning signs, timely treatment and quality care. In October 2024, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed two key components of the first PA Momnibus package into law, including Medicaid reimbursement for doula services and a statewide public awareness campaign on postpartum depression.
Information about this hearing and other House Majority Policy Committee hearings can be found at pahouse.com/policy. Photos to be used for publication can be found at https://www.facebook.com/PADemPolicy.