AN ACT to appropriate additional funding to equity before birth.

Whereas, over 60% of pregnancy‑related deaths are preventable; and

Whereas, studies show paid parental leave dramatically improves birth outcomes for both the birthing person and the baby; and

Whereas, supplemental income promotes financial security, which removes one of the largest barriers to receiving care, leading to less stress and better birth and recovery outcomes; and

Whereas, Equity Before Birth, a maternal health nonprofit organization, works to improve the maternal health outcomes by providing supplemental income and sponsorship to families for services and support; Now, therefore,

The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:

SECTION 1.  There is appropriated from the General Fund to Equity Before Birth, a nonprofit organization, the sum of two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) in nonrecurring funds for the 2021‑2022 fiscal year to supplement the income of mothers in the absence of paid parental leave and to cover the cost of essential services and support. These funds will help decrease maternal and infant mortality by helping those who are disproportionately impacted–Black mothers, birthing people, and their infants.

SECTION 2.  This act becomes effective July 1, 2021.