U.S. Senators John Boozman and Michael Bennet have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at improving pregnancy outcomes and infant health by focusing on research and education to prevent preterm births. The Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early (PREEMIE) Reauthorization Act seeks to continue federal efforts in reducing preterm birth rates and infant mortality through research, education, and intervention activities.
The legislation includes provisions for a study to understand better the factors leading to preterm births and to identify effective prevention and treatment strategies. In Arkansas alone, 2023 saw 4,259 preterm births, accounting for 12.1 percent of live births. The issue is notably prevalent among Black mothers, who experience disproportionately high rates of preterm delivery.
Senator Boozman highlighted the challenges faced by Arkansas families due to one of the highest rates of preterm birth in the country. He emphasized that while progress has been made through various initiatives, more work is necessary. “Our bipartisan legislation is a strong step in the right direction to reduce preterm births and infant mortality so more moms and babies lead strong, healthy lives,” he stated.
Senator Bennet underscored the need for increased research into the causes of preterm births, particularly in underserved communities where rates are higher. “Our bipartisan bill will renew lifesaving research to prevent premature delivery and give mothers and babies a healthy start in life,” Bennet said.
The PREEMIE Act aims to reauthorize programs under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focused on research and data collection regarding infants born prematurely. It also includes programs at the Health Resources and Services Administration designed to improve outcomes for these infants. This involves grants aimed at educating doctors and the public about risk factors such as smoking, as well as addressing depression and substance use disorders among pregnant women.
Stacey Y. Brayboy from March of Dimes stressed that every family deserves a healthy start but noted that this is not always the reality in the U.S., with a reported preterm birth rate of 10.4 percent according to their Report Card. She emphasized that renewing this legislation is crucial for reversing negative trends associated with premature births.
Companion legislation has also been introduced in the House by Representatives Robin Kelly, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Lizzie Fletcher, Buddy Carter, Shontel Brown, and Jen Kiggans.
