AR HB1580

Creates the Commission on Racial Inequalities in Maternal Mortality to examine and reduce racial inequities in maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity in Arkansas.

Commission membership includes representatives from the Arkansas Legislative Black Caucus, Department of Health, medical organizations, nurse-midwives, 10 Governor-appointed members, and up to 3 additional members appointed by cochairs to ensure representation of communities of color.

Commission must meet at least 4 times in locations across the state experiencing high or disparate maternal mortality rates; legislative members receive per diem and mileage while nonlegislative members receive expense reimbursement only.

Commission shall investigate evidence-based practices, barriers to prenatal/postpartum care, effects of racism and implicit bias on maternal health, data availability, insurance coverage gaps, and recommend specific legislative solutions.

Commission must file a final written report within 1 year to legislative leaders, the Department of Health, and relevant committees with findings and proposed legislation; commission expires December 31, 2022.