Hoyer Applauds Executive Actions on the Black Maternal Health Crisis

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today following the Biden Administration's executive actions to address the Black maternal health crisis:

"During Black Maternal Health Week, I applaud the strong executive actions taken by President Biden and Vice President Harris to address longstanding racial inequities in our health care system – which have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic – and improve health outcomes for Black mothers and mothers-to-be. It is unacceptable that Black women in America are up to four times more likely to die from preventable pregnancy-related complications. The actions taken today are important first steps as we work to end maternal mortality, but more must be done. We must build on these efforts to root out bias in medical services, improve access to key reproductive and preventative health services for all women, and expand access to quality health care in hard-to-reach communities.

"As a founding Member of the Black Maternal Health Caucus in Congress, I am pleased by the steps announced today to prioritize equity in health care for those who have had to face injustice for far too long. I look forward to working with the Biden Administration to address racial disparities in maternal health and ensure all mothers receive the care they deserve."