Maternal Health Pandemic Response Act

S 1605, the Maternal Health Pandemic Response Act, allocates $190 million to improve maternal and infant health outcomes during public health emergencies. It requires the CDC to collect and publicly share disaggregated data on pregnancy-related health outcomes by race, ethnicity, and other factors, and mandates updated guidance for health departments on equitable care. The bill establishes a task force to develop federal recommendations for respectful, responsive maternity care during emergencies, focusing on reducing racial disparities and addressing issues like telehealth access and doula coverage. This law directly affects pregnant and postpartum individuals - especially those from racial/ethnic minority groups - and shapes how public health systems respond to health crises impacting maternal health.