Bill to Strengthen Maternal Health Equity Passes Senate

DENVER, CO – Legislation to strengthen Colorado’s response to maternal health inequities passed the Senate today.

HB26-1044, sponsored by Senators Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs, and Adrienne Benavidez, D-Commerce City, would promote respectful, evidence-based maternity care and address racial inequities in childbirth.

“Black women deserve to be listened to and given high-quality care at all times, including during pregnancy and childbirth,” said Exum. “It is unacceptable that bias in our health care system frequently causes delayed care and worse outcomes for Black women and babies. This bill will give us more data to understand the problem and requires concrete steps to improve care for women of color.”

“We must do more to address the health inequities that cause preventable tragedies during pregnancy and childbirth,” said Benavidez. “Through strengthening education for providers and patients, centering respectful care, and improving data and reporting, this bill addresses maternal health inequities head-on to ensure Black women get the care they need.” 

The bill builds upon previous legislation to improve maternal health care, especially for women of color. It would require the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) to report on maternal health outcomes for populations known to have the worst mortality outcomes. The bill would also ensure that CDPHE’s Maternal Health Task Force has at least one maternal health advocate that represents these communities.

To boost equity in maternal care, this bill would require licensing boards to consider including cultural competency training as part of the Continuing Medical Education (CME) requirements for health care providers. Birthing facilities would also be required to provide information to patients who request it about their rights, which include the right to culturally sensitive, evidence-based care and the right to have a birthing companion and family member during the birth. 

In 2023, the maternal mortality rate for Black women was more than three times higher than white women. In addition, Black and American Indian and Alaska Native infants are at least two times more likely to die than white infants. Research also shows that pregnancy-related mortality of Black women persists across education and income levels, and Black women are at a significantly higher risk for severe maternal morbidity, which includes conditions such as preeclampsia.

HB26-1044 now heads back to the House for consideration of amendments. Track its progress HERE.