HEALTH CARE: Harder Leads Landmark Legislation to Reverse Maternal Mortality Crisis

San Joaquin County has highest pregnancy-related mortality rate in California, 2x higher than national rate

Four out of five pregnancy-related deaths are preventable

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced landmark legislation to end the growing maternal mortality crisis nationwide and reverse severe mortality rates in the Valley. The historic Momnibus Act, made up of 14 different bills to prevent deaths and improve maternal health outcomes, is the most comprehensive initiative for moms and especially women of color ever introduced in Washington.

Having a child has become a potentially fatal gamble for far too many families:

• Pregnancy-related deaths, which can be caused by or made worse by the pregnancy or its management, happened more often in San Joaquin County in recent years than anywhere else in California, and twice as often as the national rate. 
• These deaths are so tragic because 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, meaning we have the science to save more lives but the current health care system isn’t keeping up. 
• Devastating cuts to Medi-Cal and health care tax credits are threatening to make this crisis so much worse with increased costs and stress for pregnancy care and potential cuts to service in already-underserved areas.

“Our maternal health system is a safety net full of holes and as a parent the idea of one of the most exciting moments for a new family turning into a tragedy is terrifying,” said Rep. Harder. “Moms deserve better, and this package delivers by closing gaps and improving care before, during, and after pregnancy while better supporting our amazing local providers. We need these common sense solutions signed into law ASAP to ensure our communities have the resources and care they deserve when starting their families.”  

How Harder’s bill closes gaps and improves health care outcomes for families:

• More Support Right Now for Future Moms – Historic investments in factors affecting health (housing, transportation, and food assistance) to put future moms on the best footing possible before entering pregnancy.
• Better Health Care During Pregnancy – Expanded perinatal workforce, investments in mental health support, and new programs to prioritize moms during public health emergencies.
• Long Term Support After Childbirth – New research, digital tools, data collection, and community-based organizations to improve maternal health outcomes in underserved areas.

“Health Plan of San Joaquin is committed to ensuring that every mother and baby in our community has the support they need for a healthy beginning,” said Lizeth Granados, CEO of the Health Plan of San Joaquin. “As a community‑based health plan, we are deeply invested in removing barriers, strengthening community‑based services, and improving maternal and infant well‑being so that all families in our region can thrive.”

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