KOLKHORST AUTHORS MATERNAL MORTALITY BILL IN SPECIAL SESSION

  

State Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst of Brenham has authored Senate Bill 17 to extend the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force and other policies to improve maternal health in Texas.

This legislation is one of 20 items that Governor Greg Abbott previously announced to be addressed on the special session agenda.

Kolkhorst says, “our state is working hard to collect, analyze and address the top causes, but there is so much more to do.”

She says she looks forward to collaborating with fellow lawmakers in a bipartisan effort to bring Texas to the forefront of solving the challenge of pregnancy-related deaths and maternal health.

Senate Bill 17 will expand the work and role of the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force. The legislation also requires the Health and Human Services Commission and the Department of State Health Services to develop strategies for addressing the top causes of maternal mortality.

The bill also requires the Commssion to identify ways to lower costs and improve maternal health in the Medicaid program.

Governor Greg Abbott has praised Senator Kolkhorst for her leadership on this issue.

“Pregnancy-related deaths are a devastating tragedy that leave many Texas families broken,” said Governor Abbott. "That is why extending the maternal mortality task force to find solutions is of vital importance this special session. I am grateful to Senator Kolkhorst, Rep. Burkett, Rep. Thierry and Rep. Walle for leading the charge in the legislature, and am confident that with their leadership, we can begin taking the necessary steps to address this pressing issue and further protect women in Texas."