Pritzker signs bill aiming to close maternal mortality gap

CHICAGO, Ill. (WCIA) — Governor Pritzker signed into law on Monday a bill that aims to help new mothers and close what is known as the maternal mortality gap.

Data shows that Black women, regardless of income level, are three times more likely to die from complications of pregnancy than white women, state officials said. Maternal mortality data includes deaths during pregnancy, childbirth, and up to a year after birth.

“It’s unacceptable that Black families must factor risk of death or serious medical complications into the important calculus of having a family, and here in Illinois we are working to close the maternal mortality gap and make sure every Illinoisan can give birth and raise a child safely and healthily,” Pritzker said in a press release. “I’m especially thankful to Lieutenant Governor Stratton for her leadership on this initiative and for her relentless advocacy for women across the state — with her help, we’re building a better future for our youngest Illinoisans and their families.”

The law Pritzker signed is known as the Birth Equity Initiative. Under this law, there will be competitive Medicaid reimbursement rates for doulas, lactation consultants, home visitors and other community-based care providers who help new mothers before, after, and during birth.

“Today, we’re not just signing a bill into law – we’re writing a new chapter in the story of maternal health in Illinois. Governor Pritzker’s signature reaffirms Illinois’ unwavering commitment to every mother’s right to a safe and healthy pregnancy,” Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton added. “By investing in culturally competent care, addressing systemic inequities, and centering the voices of those most affected, we’re creating a future where every mother, regardless of race or ZIP code, can bring life into this world without fear.”

The Birth Equity Initiative is a part of a larger plan that Pritzker proposed in his State of the State address and instituted in the FY25 budget. Under this plan, the state is investing $15 million in closing the maternal mortality gap. Over $10 million will be used to identify and address gaps in funding programs that can reduce adverse maternal health outcomes. $5 million, or one-third of the total investment, alone will be spent on expanding the Department of Human Services’ home visitor program and funding for a pilot diaper equity program at DHS.

Money will also go toward existing clinics, targeted toward birth centers that provide pregnancy services in underserved areas and areas that have seen a large influx of patients following Jackson v. Dobbs. There will also be grant funding to support birth centers trying to gather capital to open in underserved areas.

“Thank you, Governor JB Pritzker for signing the Birth Equity Bill (HB 5142) into law which is a strong step forward in addressing disparities in maternal health outcomes, especially for Black birthing people,” said Jennifer Welch, CEO and President of Planned Parenthood Illinois Action. “As pro-choice champions, Planned Parenthood Illinois Action knows the importance of everyone having equitable access to the full spectrum of birthing options including home birth, home visits and support during labor, an abortion, or a miscarriage. Thanks to this law, today more Illinoisans have access to the pregnancy care they need and deserve.”

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