Photo credit: Stefanie Belnavis of Birthlooms

On Monday, August 26th, the historic Maternal Health Omnibus, aimed at reducing racial inequities in maternal outcomes, was signed into state law by Governor Maura Healey surrounded by reproductive justice advocates and coalition members. BEJMA was honored to be at the ceremonial signing to celebrate the passage of the bill. From expanding access to midwives and investing in midwifery care, to addressing challenges faced by birth centers, we were excited to see this legislation move forward this summer and to see it signed into law!

Thank you to our community partners, Healey-Driscoll Administration, Legislature, and the many champions who helped pass the bill for their stalwart advocacy, especially during the July 10th Day of Action where a coalition of over 40 midwives, doulas, public health experts, and reproductive justice advocates convened at the Massachusetts Statehouse to visit every Senate office to support the bill.

You can view a video of the bill signing here, including speeches by local perinatal health activists and several BEJMA members: https://m.youtube.com/live/LTLqpYF7vqg?si=ki_XYWx3eP7rRNPT