The Health Subcommittee of the Virginia General Assembly convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss key legislative matters concerning maternal health. The meeting began with a brief acknowledgment of the need for infrastructure improvements, specifically mentioning a green light that requires attention.

Delegate Herring introduced House Bill 2109, which aims to reestablish the task force on maternal health data and quality measures. This task force, which was previously disbanded on December 1, 2023, is intended to evaluate maternal health data collection processes and current outcomes to inform policies aimed at improving maternal care across the Commonwealth. The task force will be required to report its findings annually to the governor and the General Assembly by December 1.

Delegate Herring highlighted the ongoing issue of fluctuating maternal mortality rates, particularly emphasizing the higher rates among women of color, especially Black women. He referenced national research and findings from Virginia's own mortality review team, which underscore the racial disparities in maternal health outcomes. The leading causes of maternal deaths were identified as chronic diseases and accidental overdoses, among other root causes.

Herring expressed concern over the politicization of maternal health issues in previous years and emphasized the importance of reinstating the task force through legislation rather than an executive order. He noted that the task force had previously done significant work in identifying trends within hospital systems and addressing them effectively.

The meeting underscored the critical nature of maternal health in Virginia and the need for collaborative efforts to tackle the disparities and improve outcomes for all birthing individuals in the state. Further discussions and actions regarding the bill are anticipated as the subcommittee continues its work on this vital issue.