H.R. 6238In markupHealth care
NIH maternal health program seeks $73M yearly boost
Data as of July 11, 2026
The NIH IMPROVE Act would keep and grow a federal program focused on reducing preventable maternal deaths, with up to $73.4M per year through 2031.45-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill directs the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to continue and expand a program called the IMPROVE Initiative. It would fund research and community-based programs to study why pregnant and postpartum women die or suffer serious complications, including research focused on specific regions and communities where these rates are highest.
Who does it affect?
Pregnant and postpartum women across the United States would be most directly affected. The bill places special focus on communities of color and other groups that experience maternal death and serious complications at higher rates than the national average.
Why does it matter?
Without continued federal direction, the IMPROVE Initiative may not receive dedicated funding or coordination. This bill sets a formal structure for that work to continue from 2026 through 2031.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Up to $73.4M/year authorized
- Covers 2026–2031
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
NIH IMPROVE Act
- Introduced:
- November 20, 2025
- Latest action:
- May 21, 2026
Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 46 - 0.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.