Miller-Meeks Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent Preterm Births
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) led a bipartisan effort with Reps. Robin Kelly (IL-02), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Shontel Brown (OH-11), and Jen Kiggans (VA-02) to introduce the Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early (PREEMIE) Reauthorization Act of 2025. This legislation aims to improve pregnancy outcomes and infant health by continuing critical federal research, education, and intervention programs to reduce preterm birth and infant mortality.
“Babies born prematurely face significant challenges from the very beginning of life.” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “The PREEMIE Reauthorization Act ensures these babies get a better chance at a healthy start by strengthening research and expanding educational programs to better understand and combat preterm birth. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort and to work with my colleagues to support families and improve infant health outcomes.”
“Every parent deserves peace of mind when it comes to the health of their child. By enhancing research, expanding education programs, and improving access to care, the PREEMIE Act will help give infants the best chance at a healthy life.” Said Rep. Lizzie Fletcher. “I’m honored to join Rep. Miller-Meeks and my colleagues in this important effort to reduce preterm births and improve health outcomes for families in Texas and across the nation.”
“Too many families in Georgia are impacted by the harsh realities of preterm birth and infant mortality.” said Rep. Buddy Carter. “The PREEMIE Reauthorization Act will bring vital resources to support preterm babies and their families, giving them a better chance at life and reducing the rates of infant mortality in Georgia and across the country.”
“In Cleveland, too many families know the heartbreak of a premature birth, which remains a leading cause of infant mortality.” said Rep. Shontel Brown. “This legislation will advance research and interventions to ensure all babies, no matter their background, have a strong and healthy start in life.
“For many parents, a premature birth is one of the most stressful experiences. We must do everything we can to improve the health of these babies and support mothers.” said Rep. Jen Kiggans. “I am honored to join my colleagues in introducing the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act of 2025 to improve pregnancy outcomes, prevent premature births, and provide critical support for families.”
Background:
The PREEMIE Act of 2006 first authorized the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to research preterm births, while the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) worked to improve the treatment of premature infants. The PREEMIE Reauthorization Act of 2025 also includes grants to educate the public on the risk factors for preterm birth and to support treatment for pregnant people facing depression or substance use disorders.
###