What New Federal Funding Provides for Maternal & Infant Safety
Childbirth is meant to be embraced as a moment of joy, not risk. Yet across the country, serious and often preventable dangers still threaten mothers and babies.
New federal funding (H.R. 7148) that passed in early 2026 reflects progress in maternal and infant safety but falls short of what’s needed to fully address the nation’s maternal and infant mortality crisis. Inequities remain, especially among certain women and those living in rural “maternity care deserts,” according to a recent report from Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy.
The Big Picture: Some Progress, But Not Enough
Recent data shows maternal deaths have declined slightly, dropping from 22.3 to 18.3 deaths per 100,000 live births. Black mothers, however, continue to face significantly higher risks, with mortality rates more than double the national average. Infant mortality also remains a concern, with more than 20,000 babies lost in a single year. For families, these aren’t just statistics; they are life-altering outcomes that raise important questions about the quality and safety of care.
Where the Funding Is Going
The new federal budget includes investments in programs designed to improve outcomes before, during, and after birth. These include:
- Maternal and child health services to support care at the state level
- “Healthy Start” programs focused on underserved communities
- Safety and tracking initiatives that monitor pregnancy risks and complications
- Maternal mental health support, including a national hotline for new and expecting mothers
- Research and prevention programs targeting premature birth and maternal deaths
There’s also a growing focus on rural communities, where limited access to maternity care has created “care deserts” for many families. According to the report, this latest round of funding reflects a continued commitment to maternal and infant health, but persistent disparities, gaps in care, and preventable complications remain part of the conversation.
Sometimes, the experience of childbirth can turn into something more disheartening: injury from negligence or medical error. Tom Duffy is a top Philadelphia birth injury attorney in Philadelphia who has recovered birth injury settlements in excess of $20,000,000. If you need his help, contact us to set a time to speak about your legal options.