Child Care Assistance for Maternal Health Act

HR 5581, the Child Care Assistance for Maternal Health Act, authorizes competitive grants to states, tribes, and community organizations to fund short-term child care (like crisis nurseries) during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The program prioritizes serving vulnerable families - including low-income households, those experiencing homelessness, and areas with high maternal mortality rates - and requires grantees to provide outreach, assess community needs, and report on maternal/child health outcomes. Grants must support projects lasting at least three years, with at least 10 grants awarded annually (subject to funding), and $5 million per year allocated for fiscal years 2024-2026. The bill mandates evaluation of the program’s effectiveness and reports to Congress on outcomes related to maternal and child health.