Bringing HB146 to Session

Please click here to view the campaign’s toolkit: HB 146 ToolKit (4)

Reflecting on my past blog posts, it’s hard to believe I am writing this blog post while the bill Saul’s Light’s Founder Kimberly Novod and I have been working so tirelessly on, is currently in session. This semester has been spent building our coalition, meeting with families who have experienced stillbirth, and meeting with Representative Hilferty who is the author and sponsor of our bill. Hearing directly from the families who have been affected by stillbirth makes all the work I have been doing all the more worth it. These families without the tax credit were put in extremely vulnerable positions not only emotionally, but also financially and culturally. While mourning the loss of their newborn, these families were also worrying about paying for the funeral, burial fees, autopsy costs, medical bills, and more.

I have been involved in many interesting conversations regarding the political stance of the Tax Credit Bill. I was not surprised by the feedback, but after many captivating conversations, one with my fellow Newcomb interns, it became clear that the issue is deeper than whether this bill is pro-choice or pro-life. Stillbirth is such a personal experience that really comes down to the birthing person and families hopes and feelings towards their own pregnancy. These families were expecting a baby and that is what they are mourning. I am hoping that the language of the bill can be read and interpreted in support of exactly what it is intended, which is to recognize and hopefully offer support to grieving families. I have really appreciated all feedback and conversations I have participated in regarding all the nuances of the bill and hope it welcomes future collaboration and conversation between groups that may not always see eye to eye on reproductive health issues.

Saul’s Light was invited to Black Maternal Health Advocacy Day to be a part of the legislative agenda to speak about the importance of the bill HB 146. Many members of the Black Momnibus policy advocates spoke as well. I have attached a copy of the Tool Kit I created to inform legislators, the general public, and coalition members all about the importance of passing a tax credit for families who experience Stillbirth. If you know of anyone or have a personal relationship with stillbirth, or just want to support the bill, please take a look at the toolkit to find out how to help get the bill passed! We need to reach out to as many legislators as possible, and hearing from their constituents directly is the best way to spread the word!

If you have any questions, please direct them to advocacy@saulslight.org.