NJ Governor Signs Bill Creating Maternal Mortality Review Committee
"New Jersey's maternal mortality rate is almost double the national average, with 37.3 pregnancy-associated or pregnancy-related deaths for every 100,000 live births," said Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, one of the bill's primary sponsors. "It is imperative that we figure out why New Jersey mothers are dying at an unprecedented rate in a state with high-quality health care."
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bill on May 1 that will establish a Maternal Mortality Review Committee that will annually review and report on rates and causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in New Jersey and recommend improvements in maternal care. "Improving health outcomes for New Jersey's mothers is a vital component of tackling the maternal and infant health crisis," the governor said. "This legislation will allow us to take a comprehensive approach to analyzing data and finding solutions to address maternal mortality and morbidity in our state. I commend my partners in Legislature for working with me to build a stronger, fairer, and healthier New Jersey."
"New Jersey's maternal mortality rate is almost double the national average, with 37.3 pregnancy-associated or pregnancy-related deaths for every 100,000 live births," said Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, one of the bill's primary sponsors. "It is imperative that we figure out why New Jersey mothers are dying at an unprecedented rate in a state with high-quality health care. Collecting and investigating the data will enable us to develop solutions to prevent further tragedy."
"New Jersey's maternal mortality rates are alarming, and for women and infants of color the statistics are even more distressing," added First Lady Tammy Murphy, who called the bill signing "a critical step forward in combatting the maternal and infant health crisis. From examining data to determining economic and social factors that contribute to maternal mortality, we are working every angle to better serve New Jersey's mothers, babies, and families."
New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Shereef Elnahal said the new committee will help officials learn from maternal deaths across the state. "Importantly, it also empowers us to convene stakeholders across government and the health care system to respond by improving the quality and safety of maternity care."