NEWBORN Act

The NEWBORN Act (S 2978) establishes federal grants to fund pilot programs aimed at reducing infant mortality in high-risk areas. It authorizes $10 million annually (2023-2027) for eligible entities like county health departments, tribal organizations, or state health departments to implement programs targeting causes such as preterm birth, birth defects, SIDS, and maternal complications. These programs must include community-specific outreach, prenatal/postpartum support, rural care access, public education campaigns, and coordination with existing health services. The bill requires grantees to submit annual reports on program outcomes and limits program evaluation costs to 10% of grant funds.