119-HR-6238 Journalist Public Summary

Public Summary: NIH IMPROVE Act (H.R. 6238)

Headline Summary: The NIH IMPROVE Act would write into law and fund a National Institutes of Health program focused on reducing maternal deaths and dangerous pregnancy complications, especially in communities with the highest risks. [2]Congress.gov/GovInfo — H.R. 6238 — Introduced text (BILLS-119hr6238ih.pdf)

What It Does: The bill codifies NIH’s existing IMPROVE Initiative and authorizes it to fund research and community-based projects that target the leading causes of maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity, cut disparities, and improve health before, during, and after pregnancy. It authorizes $73.4 million per year for fiscal years 2026–2031 and lets NIH award grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements to carry this out. Why it matters: U.S. maternal mortality remains a persistent problem and is higher for Black women; the CDC reports the national rate was 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2022, with much higher rates for Black women, underscoring the need for sustained research and proven interventions. [2]Congress.gov/GovInfo — H.R. 6238 — Introduced text (BILLS-119hr6238ih.pdf)

• Supporters: The bill is led by Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and drew unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Energy & Commerce Committee (46–0) on May 21, 2026. [3]underwood.house.gov
• Advocacy groups: March of Dimes formally urged passage, citing the program’s role in reducing preventable maternal deaths and complications. [4]docs.house.gov — E&C Full Committee Markup Documents for the Record (includes M…
• NIH background: The agency launched the IMPROVE Initiative to coordinate cross‑institute research and community partnerships that address biological, behavioral, and structural drivers of poor maternal outcomes. [5]NIH/NICHD — About the IMPROVE Initiative (NICHD/NIH)

• Opponents: No organized opposition was recorded at the May 21, 2026 committee markup; the bill advanced 46–0, indicating broad bipartisan support. [1]House Energy & Commerce Committee (Republicans) — E&C Advances 16 Bills to Full…

What’s Next: After being ordered reported, the bill heads to the full House for potential floor consideration; the Senate has a companion measure (S. 3254), which could speed final passage if both chambers align on text. Timing depends on House and Senate scheduling. [1]House Energy & Commerce Committee (Republicans) — E&C Advances 16 Bills to Full…