Gov. Pritzker Releases Statement on Passage of Birth Equity Initiative (HB5142)

SPRINGFIELD— Governor JB Pritzker released the following statement in response to the passage of HB5142:

Today’s final action on HB5142 moves Illinois one step closer to our goal of making all mothers and children safer and healthier regardless of race or financial status. The Birth Equity Initiative will work to close the tragic gap in maternal mortality between Black women and other new parents, and ensures we meet the unique pregnancy, birthing, and postpartum needs of women across our state.

I’m grateful to my General Assembly colleagues, particularly to sponsor Majority Leader Robyn Gabel and Senator Lakesia Collins, for recognizing the importance of this piece of legislation. I’m also immensely grateful for my partner in governance Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, a tireless advocate for this legislation and the women and families it protects. I look forward to signing this bill and building an Illinois where everyone can feel safe in their decision to start and raise a family.

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