Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Protect Mothers and Fight the Black Maternal Health Crisis

Resources / Uncategorized Share on Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Protect Mothers and Fight the Black Maternal Health Crisis May 07, 2026 Uncategorized WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) introduced the Blood Pressure MATTERS Act that would require healthcare insurers to provide pregnant and postpartum moms blood pressure monitoring devices, without cost sharing with the patient. High blood pressure during pregnancy carries significant risks for the mother and baby, including preeclampsia, placental abruption, and premature birth. Rates of gestational hypertension are higher among Black and Native American mothers, contributing to racial health disparities and the Black maternal mortality crisis. Hypertension during pregnancy can lead to harmful outcomes for the pregnant person and baby. High blood pressure can limit blood flow to the placenta, slow fetal growth, contribute to placental abruption and premature delivery To address gestational hypertension, this bill will provide the tools pregnant people need to monitor their health at home and seek the care they need. Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said: “Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality, yet in so many cases, early intervention and access to care can save lives. During the final weeks of my pregnancy, my doctors placed me on bed rest because of preeclampsia. After giving birth, I was preparing to go home when a nurse checked my blood pressure one more time—and it was dangerously high again. I spent two additional days in the hospital receiving treatment for postpartum preeclampsia, and that extra care made all the difference. I was able to go home healthy with my newborn son in my arms. But too many mothers, especially Black mothers, do not get that same chance. The Blood Pressure Matters Act will help give moms the tools and resources they need to protect their health and their babies, save lives, and help end the Black Maternal Health Crisis—one blood pressure reading at a time.” Endorsing Organizations: Abortion Forward (OH), Advocates for Youth, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Birth in Color, Birthmark, Central Phoenix Inez Casiano NOW, Courage California, Desiree Alliance, Every Mother Counts, Ipas US, Lawyering Project, Lilith Fund, Medical Students for Choice, Nancy Davis Foundation, NASPAG, National Organization for Women, National Partnership for Women and Families, Oshun Family Center, Pennsylvania Religious Coalition for Reproductive Justice, People Power United, Religious Community for Reproductive Choice, and Texas Equal Access Fund Click here to read the text of the Blood Pressure MATTERS Act. Click here to read the one-pager on the Blood Pressure MATTERS Act. Share on