The Ohio House of Representatives voted in favor of implementing new policy initiatives that would help to reduce Ohio's infant mortality rates on Wednesday.
Senate Bill 323 will go back to the Senate for a concurrence vote. It enacts recommendations issued by the commission on infant mortality, including equipping organizations with the resources to help pregnant mothers quit smoking and the elimination of the sale of crib bumpers.
The House said that "one of the most striking trends that was uncovered by the commission was that while the overall mortality rate has marginally improved over the past year, the mortality rate is disproportionately impacting racial minorities." In order to address the concern, the new bill would provide resources available to new and expectant mothers living in underserved communities.
The bill also includes provisions that permit pharmacists to administer injectable drugs, including opioid antagonists and drugs that reduce the risk of preterm birth.
