1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

Today I’m writing to urge you to support H.R. 1197 / S.1562, also known as the The PREEMIE Reauthorization Act of 2025. It expired in 2023, and needs to be extended. As you may know, this bipartisan bill reauthorizes vital federal research, education, and intervention programs aimed at preventing preterm births and reducing infant mortality rates. In fact, there were nearly It authorizes Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to continue collecting crucial data on premature births and funds initiatives at the Health Resources and Services Administration to enhance treatment for preterm infants. It also establishes an HHS entity to coordinate all federal activities and programs related to preterm birth, infant mortality and other adverse birth outcomes. As I read it, the bill authorizes a study to better understand the factors leading to preterm delivery and identify effective prevention strategies. Rather than having one cause, preterm birth seems to be triggered by multiple, interacting biologic and environmental factors. That’s certainly something worth researching. We do know that a history of preterm birth, multiple gestations, and certain uterine and/or cervical problems are the strongest risk factors for preterm birth, but we need to know more. By strengthening efforts to address this significant public health issue, the PREEMIE Act safeguards the well-being of our most vulnerable citizens and supports families during an extremely challenging time. Especially when the Republican Congress I urge you to prioritize the health of mothers and babies by voting in favor of this essential legislation.