Developing: Representative Ward Johnson Sponsors Bill to Study Black Maternal Health in Texas
AUSTIN, Texas – State Representative Charlene Ward Johnson has authored HB 3339, calling for a comprehensive study on maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women in Texas. In a state that doesn’t take care of most women, Black women are nearly three times more likely to die during childbirth than any other group. The birth of a child should be a moment of joy, bonding, and hope — not one overshadowed by tragic and preventable death. We urge the Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Subcommittee to recognize the urgency of this issue and vote to move HB 3339 forward. The lives of Texas mothers depend on it.
Representative Charlene Ward Johnson issued the following statement:
“It is such an honor to be able to file and champion HB 3339, ensuring that the State of Texas conducts a study on the maternal mortality and morbidity of Black women. Black women face higher rates of pregnancy-related complications than any other demographic in our state, and it is only right for us to provide the necessary research and resources to address this issue head-on. This vital study will bring more awareness to create solutions that will help save the lives of Black mothers.”
Texas Democratic Party Vice Chair Shay Wyrick-Cathey issued the following statement:
“As a Black mother, I know the quiet anxiety that creeps in when I walk into a doctor’s office—the fear that my pain won’t be believed, that my concerns will be dismissed. My own experience in delivering my twin sons was life-threatening. Far too often in our state, Black women die during what should be one of the most beautiful and sacred times in life: bringing a child into the world. HB 3339 is a crucial step forward. It acknowledges what so many of us already know: there is a crisis in Black maternal health. This bill will launch a study to help our state and our cities truly understand the full scope of this issue—and, more importantly, how to fix it.
“No more mothers should lose their lives simply because they weren’t heard. HB 3339 gives us a chance to change that.”
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