Bill Caption

Relating to maternal health and safety, pregnancy-related deaths, and maternal morbidity, including postpartum depression.

Fiscal Notes

From the LBB: No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. According to the Health and Human Services Commission and the Department of State Health Services, it is assumed that the duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.

Bill Analysis

This bill would extend the sunset date of the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force to 2023. The task force is currently scheduled to expire in 2019. This bill would further refine and revise the mission of the task force. Among other things, new responsibilities of the task force would include studying "best practices and programs operating in other states that have reduced rates of pregnancy-related deaths" and comparing "rates of pregnancy-related deaths based on the socioeconomic status of the mother". This bill would require the Health and Human Services Commission to submit a report summarizing their efforts to reduce maternal mortality and for treating postpartum depression in economically disadvantaged women. The bill would also require HHSC and the task force to "promote and facilitate the use among health care providers in this state of maternal health and safety informational materials, including tools and procedures related to best practices in maternal health and safety."

Vote Recommendation Notes

Extending the sunset expiration date of the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force and revising its study and reporting requirements does not impact our liberty principles and we remain neutral.