Schneider Introduces Bipartisan Resolution for Individuals Who Have Experienced The Loss of a Pregnancy or Infant

WASHINGTON— Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Congressman French Hill (AR-02) introduced a resolution recognizing individuals who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant. In 2006, Congress first recognized October 15th as "National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day."

“The loss of a pregnancy or young child is heartbreaking. On October 15th, Congress recognizes National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day to remember the pain of these families. It’s vital we honor the resilience of those who have exhibited incredible strength through hardship. By promoting awareness and education of the issue, we can build a supportive community to ease the suffering for individuals and families who have already been through the unimaginable,” said Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10).

“As a man of faith, a father of two, and a former member of the Board of Directors of Arkansas Children’s Hospital, I support uplifting families and understand how important it is that parents are given the tools they need to keep their children healthy, especially during pregnancy and early childhood. Sadly, this strikes close to home as Arkansas has the fourth highest rate of fetal mortality. On this National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, I stand with the individuals and families hit by these losses and Congress reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that parents have access to the best care possible during these critical months and years,” said Congressman French Hill (AR-02).

The resolution text is available below:

Supporting the designation of October 15, 2023 as "National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day" and recognizing the people that have lost a pregnancy or an infant;

Whereas 2023 marks the 17th nationally recognized "Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day";

Whereas each year, approximately one million pregnancies in the United States end in miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of a newborn;

Whereas pregnancy and infant loss can affect families long after their loss;

Whereas the loss of an infant or a pregnancy can negatively affect a person's mental health;

Whereas families would benefit from bereavement leave from work to take care of themselves and their families;

Whereas people who have experienced pregnancy loss or infant loss should not have their experiences minimized or stigmatized;

Whereas Congress should acknowledge the personal experiences of individuals who have lost a pregnancy or infant and empower those individuals to speak about their losses;

Whereas recognizing Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is an opportunity to increase awareness, promote research and greater understanding, and provide community to those who have experienced pregnancy loss or infant loss;

Whereas Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day allows the people of the United States to consider how we can best support families who experience loss and work to prevent pregnancy loss and infant loss;

Resolved That the House of Representatives —

(1) supports the goals and ideals of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day;

(2) understands the importance of honoring these losses and supporting affected people and their families; and

(3) requests that the President issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe such day with appropriate programs and activities.

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