U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) on July 2 sponsored bipartisan legislation that would direct targeted U.S. global health assistance to be used to scale up interventions that support healthy pregnancies and reduce mortality rates in select partner countries.
“By scaling proven interventions, supporting American manufacturing, and partnering with countries committed to better outcomes, we are advancing U.S. interests and building a more stable world,” said Rep. Kim, who introduced the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Act of 2026, H.R. 9583, alongside two cosponsors, including U.S. Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV).
The bill would provide support for scaling up global access to multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) and other cost-effective maternal and child interventions.
“As a mom and grandma, I know nothing matters more than the health of our children,” Rep. Kim said. “The Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Act is a smart, targeted, and cost-effective approach that saves lives while strengthening America’s leadership abroad.”
Each year, nearly 260,000 women die from preventable pregnancy-related complications.
Evidence-based solutions like MMS prenatal vitamins, skilled birth attendants, and basic infection treatment can dramatically reduce these deaths, yet too often they remain out of reach for women in the world’s most vulnerable communities, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kim’s staff.
MMS prenatal vitamins and other interventions supported by the bill are powered by American innovation and manufacturing, putting U.S. innovation to work while reinforcing supply chains at home to help reduce maternal and child mortality, the summary says.
The measure is under consideration by the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee.