Introduction of H.R. 5012--Shine for Autumn Act

Floor Speech

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Mrs. KIM of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on stillbirth which is a maternal and infant health crisis that tragically accounts for the deaths of over 21,000 babies every year in our country. Studies indicate that at least 25 percent of U.S. stillbirths are preventable, and addressing these preventable cases could save at least 5,250 babies each year. Sadly, despite these alarming statistics, stillbirth is one of the most underfunded and underresearched public health issues today.

To address high stillbirth rates, we need to improve data collection, research, and awareness. I introduced the bipartisan Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education (SHINE) for Autumn Act, H.R. 5012, with Rep. Kathy Castor that would do just that. The SHINE Act creates the first comprehensive federal-state partnership to streamline data collection on stillbirth across the Nation.

I would like to include in the record a link to more than 1,500 testimonies from parents and families affected by stillbirth: https:// youngkim.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/H.R.-5012-SHINE-for-Autumn-Act- Testimonies-1.pdf. I hope for swift action from Congress to ensure healthier pregnancies and decrease stillbirth rates.

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