Pregnant person image via freestocks on unsplash.com.

The Fresno-based BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center is sponsoring Assembly Bill 2420, authored by Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula.

AB 2420 will direct the California Department of Public Health to review available research and literature on detrimental impacts of extreme heat on pregnant people. A work group will develop guidance for safe outdoor conditions and recommend best practices. The bill also requires that the findings will be reported to the state Legislature.

The bill was introduced in February and was passed by the Assembly Health Committee on April 19 and referred to the Assembly Appropriations Committee. 

 

Arambula has historically advocated for maternal and children’s health, according to a news release, and this bill will focus on adverse effects of extreme heat on pregnant individuals. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to help make positive change for pregnant people through this bill,” said Shantay Davies-Balch, CEO and founder of BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center. “Pregnant people are much more susceptible to heat and other environmental elements which require education and support in various forms. This bill is a step towards that.”

The BLACK Wellness & Prosperity Center advocates to improve Black maternal and child health outcomes. It will develop educational resources in conjunction with the bill.

“Mrs. Davies-Balch is a champion in the field of maternal health. I am honored to work with her on making much-needed changes that will have a positive impact on pregnant people in the Central Valley. As an emergency room physician before my election to the State Assembly, I know how important it is to do what we can to ensure quality health care, and we know that infant development during pregnancy can have long-term effects on both the mother and the child,” said Arambula.