Michael Burgess

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I would just ask if the gentleman from Massachusetts has additional speakers. If not, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, our adversaries, notably Russia, China, and Iran, are watching to see how we will respond. Our reaction to these crises will determine how they will choose to proceed. An important difference between this package of bills today and the previously passed Senate supplemental is the addition of the 21st Century Peace through Strength Act. The legislation is important as it includes sanctions and policies that counter our adversaries through the inclusion of the REPO Act, the removal of our payment for foreign pensions, and requiring the administration to provide a game plan in Ukraine, something that many of us have been asking for, for some time. Ronald Reagan told us peace comes through strength. By failing to act now, it will signal the opposite of strength. It will invite future aggression, as failure to act has done so often in the past. Mr. Speaker, I also feel obligated to point out that this Congress has had two votes on providing aid to Israel. One occurred in October, right after Speaker Johnson was elected. Indeed, it was one of his highest priorities. I thought that aid package was responsibly offset through cuts to other Federal agencies here. Senator Schumer didn't see it that way and said we have never conditioned aid to Israel with anything, so there can be no offset, that it can't be paid for. In the House, in February of this year, I think it was Mr. Calvert of California who introduced a bill to provide the same aid to Israel without the offset. It was blocked, this time by people on my side. The Speaker said, okay, let's bring it up under suspension, and maybe we can get agreement between Members on both sides. In fact, under suspension, the two-thirds majority required was not achieved, so that bill failed in February, as well. Had any one of those bills passed, we might not be here today because we all know 1 week--10 days ago--Iran attacked Israel, the missiles and drones originating from Iranian soil, the first time that has ever happened, and the crisis advanced. Yes, we did have an opportunity to provide that aid to Israel. It might not have been what my friend from Massachusetts would have wanted, but at the same time, we had the opportunity to provide that. Unfortunately, now, even members of my committee are upset with where we are today, but we had the opportunity to sort of head off all of this by simply passing that aid package last February, and we wouldn't do it. What happens if we don't do this today? Does it get better or worse for us down the road? Nobody knows the answer to that, but history tells us it is very likely to get worse. We have two votes now, Mr. Speaker, on Israeli aid. On both counts, I think most of us in this body want to see that pass. I will stress again that weakness invites aggression, and we cannot allow our allies in the Middle East, the Indo-Pacific, and Ukraine to be abandoned. By doing so, we will not prevent future aggression but will invite it. Today, we have an opportunity to deliver critical aid to our allies, and I believe it is appropriate to do so. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time, and I move the previous question on the resolution. The previous question was ordered.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend for yielding. I rise today in support of this very important rule. Specifically, I rise in support of Israel following the attack on Israel by Iran this past weekend. This direct attack on Israel is unprecedented. It does mark the first time that Iran has directly attacked Israel from Iranian soil. In total, more than 300 drones were launched toward Israel, severely injuring a 7-year-old girl and damaging a military base. While the United States worked with longstanding allies to help assist in the interception of these missiles and drones, it is clear that the stability of the region is only as strong as the Israeli- United States partnership. Understanding this and the gravity of Iran's attack, Republicans have put forth legislation this week to condemn the attack and reaffirm our support for Israel. Be assured, Mr. Speaker, Israel does have a right to self-defense. This rule and the underlying legislation in the rule reaffirms the United States' commitment to Israel's security, it designates the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, and it holds Iran accountable for their support of proxy wars and terrorism in the region. Mr. Speaker, it is important that the United States take up these measures and ensure the safety of Israel and the safety of the United States. Undeniably, Iran should be held accountable for this attack. This legislation seeks to do just that. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of the rule from my colleagues.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Massie), my friend, for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I do rise today in support of the rule and the underlying legislation. It is a new day in the House of Representatives, and I intend to make certain that this process works and it works for all of us; that all Members get to be heard and at the end of the day, as Mr. Massie points out; and that after a fulsome debate, we are able to move forward for the American people. I will specifically talk today on H.R. 7888, the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act, and H. Res. 1117, Opposing Efforts to Place One-Sided Pressure on Israel with Respect to Gaza. Republicans remain concerned about the abuses that occurred under 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act in previous administrations. The rule before us provides consideration for reforms to FISA, including greater transparency and greater oversight for the American people. Mr. Speaker, in total, 56 reforms were made in response to concerns raised by our constituents. These reforms include prohibiting searches by the FBI unrelated to national security and prohibits political appointees from being involved in the FBI's query process. The Rules Committee met last night to report this rule out of committee. It was a bit of a process. There are two significant changes to highlight from earlier in the week. The Rules Committee print changes the reauthorization from 5 years to 2 years, which is important. The reforms that are now incorporated in the new FISA reauthorization will be reevaluated by the next Congress as to whether or not they are actually working. Therefore, rather than a 5-year reauthorization, we can look again in 2 years to make certain, for our constituents, for the American people, that these reforms are actually working. I thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Roy), my friend, for bringing that forward. There are also changes in the reauthorization that strike section 19(c) from the text altogether. The latter action was taken amid some confusion about whether 19(c) would have unintentionally permanently reauthorized section 702. To help clear up any ambiguity, that section has now been removed. Ultimately, this legislation will ensure that the appropriate guardrails are in place to safeguard Americans' constitutional rights and help keep Americans safe. Additionally, Mr. Speaker, I express my support for H. Res. 1117, offered by Ms. Salazar from Florida. Israel has a right to defend itself, especially after the notorious attack by Hamas on October 7. On April 4, after a call between President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the White House released a press release stating that an immediate cease-fire is necessary. I would remind the White House that a cease-fire was in existence prior to the attack by Hamas. It is not right for the United States to pressure an ally to end a conflict that that ally did not begin. Mr. Speaker, Israel has a right to exist and a right to self-defense. The United States does not get to decide that for Israel. I would underscore the pathways for ensuring humanitarian aid, being able to enter Gaza and actually reach the Palestinian people and not be hijacked by their Hamas overlords. On April 5, Israel opened up three new corridors for humanitarian aid. I appreciate the efforts to take responsibility for something Hamas has proven unwilling to do and hope that the conflict can soon come to an end.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding additional time. However, one-sided pressure by the White House is not the way to ensure that end. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this rule from our committee, and I urge passage of the underlying legislation.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time is remaining.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I reserve the balance of my time to close.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of the time. Mr. Speaker, I express my sincere gratitude to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Arrington), my friend and the chairman of the Budget Committee, for his leadership. Also, I extend my appreciation to my fellow members of the Budget Committee for their unwavering support of this critical legislation. I thank my former and current staff: James Paluskiewicz, Alexa Roberts, and Jacquelyn Incerto. Additionally, I express my appreciation for the Budget Committee staff--namely, Gary Andres, Paige Decker, Braden Murphy, and Charles Chapman--for their work in advancing this incredibly important bill. I introduced the Preventive Health Savings Act back in 2012, driven by the belief that, too often, potentially transformative legislation is sidelined due to short-sighted budget constraints. We cannot afford to overlook the long-term benefits of preventive health measures for the well-being of our patients and the well-being of our Nation. Preventive healthcare is not just about addressing immediate health concerns. It is about laying a foundation for a healthier future by proactively managing risks, reducing the incidence of chronic illnesses, and, ultimately, cutting down on healthcare costs. With over 70 percent of healthcare spending attributed to chronic diseases, it is clear that investing in prevention is not just prudent but essential. H.R. 766 is a crucial step forward. By establishing a mechanism for the Congressional Budget Office to accurately assess the long-term cost-savings potential of preventive health initiatives, this legislation enables us to make a more informed and forward-thinking policy decision. Once again, I am grateful to everyone who played a part in moving this bill. I express my gratitude to Congresswoman DeGette for her invaluable partnership. I thank the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Ms. Omar), for her kind words today. Donna Christian-Christensen, our former colleague from the Virgin Islands, also assisted in this effort. Words cannot express how grateful and honored I am. Let me just say, as a general rule, Mr. Speaker, I don't think it is a good idea that things be named after people while they are still alive. However, in this case, I actually made an exception. I am happy that my name is attached to this critical piece of legislation. Let's continue to work together toward a future where preventive health is not just an afterthought but a cornerstone of our national healthcare policy and our public strategy. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Mrs. Fischbach).

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 766) to amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 respecting the scoring of preventive health savings, as amended.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material into the bill.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 766, the Dr. Michael C. Burgess Preventive Health Savings Act. This pivotal piece of legislation seeks to establish a mechanism for the Congressional Budget Office to more accurately reflect the long- term, cost-saving potential of preventive healthcare initiatives. This bipartisan, bicameral effort underscores our commitment to promoting the health and well-being of all Americans. We encourage the use of data-informed preventive health measures, and we are taking proactive steps toward not only saving lives, but also saving taxpayer dollars in the long run. Chronic illnesses account for over 70 percent of all our healthcare spending, and they continue to pose a significant burden on our system and our economy. However, by enacting measures like H.R. 766, we can begin to bend the cost curve and provide a more accurate understanding of the long-term cost savings from preventive healthcare policies. H.R. 766 specifically allows the Congressional Budget Office, upon the instruction of Congress, to extend its analysis beyond the existing 10-year budget window to two additional 10-year periods. This provision will enable us to conduct a fuller analysis of the potential budgetary savings and the impact of preventive health legislation, ensuring that we make informed decisions based on sound evidence and data. Moreover, the Dr. Michael C. Burgess Preventive Health Savings Act narrowly defines preventive health to encompass actions that focus on the health of the public, individuals, and defined populations. By relying on credible and publicly available evidence from various sources, such as epidemiological projection models, clinical trials, and meta-analysis, we can ensure that our policies are both meaningful and impactful. Lastly, H.R. 766 protects against estimates being used to justify partisan policies that might be used as budget gimmicks by requiring the request for a long-term estimate to be bipartisan and by stipulating such estimates cannot be used to comply with budget rules. The successes of past legislation, such as the passage of Medicare part D in 2003, under a Republican majority in Congress, serves as a reminder of the profound impact preventive care can have on our healthcare. Despite initial concerns about its costs, Medicare part D has proven to be a wise investment, yielding savings and benefits that far outweigh its initial expenses. In conclusion, I believe that an ounce of prevention is, indeed, worth a pound of cure, and preventive care in 2003 has yielded more than a pound of cure today. This undeniable truth underscores the case for preventive, personalized medicine and should only serve to encourage us to redouble our efforts and pass this important bill. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a letter of support signed by 53 organizations as part of H.R. 766. March 4, 2024. Hon. Mike Johnson, Speaker, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Hakeem Jeffries, Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader Jeffries: We, the 53 undersigned organizations, would like to express our support for H.R. 766, the ``Dr. Michael C. Burgess Preventive Health Savings Act,'' which removes outdated statutory constraints which currently prevent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates from correctly assessing preventive health initiatives that might achieve long-term health savings in federal programs. As leaders in health care representing patients, providers, associations, and employers, we all agree on the need for a continued focus on wellness and disease prevention if healthcare costs are to be contained. We share a bipartisan, bicameral view with many in Congress that to move forward with policy solutions to address the growing burden of long- term chronic disease, Congress needs new tools to rise above traditional legislative approaches to health care. Simply put, we know we can't ``cut'' our way to a healthier America by shaving dollars from federal programs that provide care to people in need every time Congress finds a new approach. As such, we all agree that the statutory constraints that CBO must currently follow to ``score'' legislation severely constrains the ability of policymakers to accurately assess legislation that would prevent chronic disease. We believe this legislation represents a significant step toward the goal of including new ideas and tactics to improve care that have proven successful in the private sector, or in health systems abroad that don't have the same regulatory or budgetary constraints. Chronic disease places a significant burden on our health and economy, but it can be reversed: We know that chronic diseases are responsible for 7 of 10 deaths among Americans each year, and they account for 90 percent of the $4.1 trillion our nation spends annually on medical care. These figures will worsen as the population ages. Much of the illness, suffering, and early death related to chronic diseases is caused by modifiable health risk behaviors such as lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, tobacco use, and alcohol and substance misuse. Preventing or delaying the onset of new cases and mitigating the progression of chronic disease will improve the health of people in America while lowering healthcare costs and overall spending. The current scoring process does not give Congress a complete picture of efforts to combat chronic disease: Research has demonstrated that certain expenditures for preventive health interventions generate savings when considered in the long term, but those cost savings may not be apparent when assessing only the first ten years--those in the ``scoring'' window. Long-term benefits from current preventive health expenditures may not be fully reflected, if at all, in cost estimates from CBO. Lawmakers need sound information, and today's methods and procedures may not work as well as needed in analyzing certain efforts to prevent costly complications of chronic diseases. CBO has already begun to examine prevention in new ways: In 2012, CBO published long-term estimates of the effect of a hypothetical tobacco tax on the federal budget. Also, in 2012, CBO published a study which found greater prescription drug access and adherence can reduce healthcare costs in other areas. In the 118th Congress, the House of Representatives continues to require CBO to score certain large bills by considering projected impacts on revenue and spending from assumed economic effects the bills. The Preventive Health Savings Act will permit leaders in Congress to request that CBO estimate the long-term health savings that are possible from preventive health initiatives: This legislation provides that the Chairman or Ranking member of either budget or health-related committees can request an analysis of the two 10-year periods beyond the existing 10-year window. The bill requires CBO to conduct an initial analysis to determine whether the provision would result in substantial savings outside the normal scoring window. CBO must include a description of those future-year savings in its budget projections but would retain the option of creating a formal projection that includes some or all the budgetary out years. This bill is necessary to bring greater attention to the longer-term value of wellness and prevention policies specifically. The bill defines preventive health as an action designed to avoid future healthcare costs that are demonstrated by credible and publicly available epidemiological projection models, incorporating clinical trials or observational studies in humans. This narrow, responsible approach discourages abuse while encouraging a sensible review of health policies and programs Congress believes will further the public's health. As the chronic disease epidemic continues to worsen, so does the need for legislation that will properly allow Congress to see the full savings of enacting prevention- focused policy measures. We applaud your efforts in sponsoring this important legislation and look forward to joining with you in transforming our nation to one that prioritizes efforts to achieve wellness and wellbeing for all. Sincerely, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Alliance for Aging Research, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American College of Gastroenterology, American College of Lifestyle Medicine, American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, American College of Preventive Medicine, American Society for Nutrition, Ascension, Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, Avery's Hope. Biocom California, Blooming Health, Inc., California Chronic Care Coalition, Caregiver Action Network, Chronic Care Policy Alliance, Connected Health Initiative, COPD Foundation, Council For Affordable Health Coverage, Determined Health, Fight Colorectal Cancer, FundPlay Foundation, Geneoscopy, Gerontological Society of America, Global Liver Institute. Healthcare Leadership Council, HealthyWomen, HIV + Hepatitis Policy Institute, Johnson & Johnson, Marshfield Clinic Health System, MemorialCare Health System, Merck, National Minority Quality Forum, Nevada Chronic Care Collaborative, NourishedRx, NTM Info & Research, Obesity Action Coalition, Obesity Medicine Association. Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease, Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease, PLAY Sports Coalition, Premier Inc., Sports & Fitness Industry Association, Team Titin, Texas Health Resources, The Obesity Society, Tivity Health, UsAgainstAlzheimer's, Vizient, Wellvana, YMCA of the USA.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I urge all my fellow colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 766 and ensuring that we continue to prioritize preventive healthcare initiatives for the betterment of all Americans, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, it is now my great privilege and high honor to yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Arrington), the chairman of the Budget Committee, as we debate the first bipartisan budget bill to pass the floor of the House I think in the history of Congress.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Wenstrup), the co-chair of the Doctors Caucus.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Bucshon), a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee and a member of the Doctors Caucus.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Smith), the chairman of the Ways and Means Committee.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Yakym).

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Carter), a fellow member of the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Moran).

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 102nd Birthday of Bartonville, Texas resident and World War II Navy veteran, Roberta Maxwell Richardson DuTeil. Mrs. DuTeil was born on January 10, 1922, in Waycross, GA. In 1943, after graduating from the University of Alabama, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy. She trained first at the Midshipman's School then the Communications School, graduating with the rank of Ensign. Stationed at the U.S. Naval Base Headquarters, Terminal Island, CA, she worked rotating shifts around the clock, covering communications for Navy and Army installation in the area. Roberta was honorably discharged from active duty on May 11, 1946, at the rank of Lt (jg) and continued to serve in the Navy Reserves until March 1953. Roberta married Army Captain Claude DuTeil in 1946 and supported his call to the ministry as he attended and graduated from Virginia Theological Seminary before being ordained as an Episcopal Priest. Over the next four decades, the DuTeils ministered to congregations in Hawaii and established a full-scale homeless shelter. Upon retirement, the couple moved to Bartonville to be close to their family. Roberta has been very active in her church and local communities, supporting many charities. She is always proud to participate in patriotic celebrations and has served as a highlighted participant in the annual Double Oak Fourth of July parade. I was pleased to present her with the 26th District Congressional Veteran Commendation in 2016. It was a privilege to join the Town of Bartonville for the special celebration of Roberta ``Tutu'' DuTeil's 102nd birthday on March 13, 2024. I request that my colleagues join me in commending Mrs. DuTeil's service on the mission field and military service to our Nation.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the professional achievements and service of Mr. Mark Hindman, City Manager for the City of North Richland Hills, Texas. Mr. Hindman is retiring following forty years of exemplary service to the public. Upon graduation from Geneva College in Pennsylvania with a B.S. in Sociology, Hindman began his public service in 1983, working for U S. Senate Finance Committee in Washington, D.C. Following two years on Capitol Hill, he completed management internships at the City of Olathe, Kansas and the City of University Park, Texas. Along the way, he earned his Masters of Public Administration from the University of Kansas. In 1987, he was hired by the City of Lubbock, TX as a Budget Analyst, and over the next eight years, he advanced through the ranks to be named Director of Finance/Support Services. The City of Mesquite, Texas hired him as Assistant City Manager in 1995, and for the next fourteen years, he provided oversight for multiple municipal departments. Mr. Hindman was named City Manager of North Richland Hills, Texas in 2009. Under Mr. Hindman's capable direction, the quality of life for North Richland Hills has been enhanced through implementation of numerous community improvements, including expansion of the city's park and trail system, construction of the NRH Centre, Grand Hall, Senior Center, Animal Shelter, and a new City Hall. He's made a priority of excellent public service and fiscal responsibility, and under his sound financial leadership, the City has seen a reduction in its tax rate to the lowest since 2016. In the fourteen years that Hindman has helmed the City of North Richland Hills, he has spearheaded efforts to revitalize older, owner- occupied residential properties and the reuse of vacant commercial properties. He guided new development and redevelopment in North Richland Hills to ensure a vibrant economy and an attractive place for its citizens to call home. Mark Hindman has been an outstanding public servant to the residents and businesses of North Richland His professional leadership will be missed throughout his community and all of North Texas. On behalf of the 26th District, I wish him all the best in his next stage of life.

Mr. BURGESS

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of my legislation, H.R. 3838, the Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2023. During March, we celebrate National Women's History Month and honor the strong women in our lives, especially our mothers who make great sacrifices to bring life into this world. According to the latest United States data, the maternal mortality rate rose yet again in 2021 to almost 33 deaths per 100,000 live births compared to a rate of 23 per 100,000 in 2020. While we know that over 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, we also understand that even one is too many. The Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act works to understand and reduce maternal mortalities by reauthorizing Federal support for State-led Maternal Mortality Review Committees. Maternal Mortality Review Committees are multidisciplinary committees that review the causes of maternal deaths in their State and make recommendations based on their findings to prevent future deaths and improve maternal health outcomes during pregnancy, childbirth, and the first year afterward. H.R. 3838 also requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to work in consultation with the Health Resources and Services Administration to disseminate best practices for the prevention of maternal mortality and morbidity to hospitals and other healthcare providers. Maternal Mortality Review Committees are vital to understanding the drivers of maternal deaths and informing effective interventions. This way we will help to ensure that resources are directed where they will have the most positive impact. Since its initial authorization in 2018, we have already seen the work of the Maternal Mortality Review Committees make a significant difference and increasing the number of Maternal Mortality Review Committees from 32 States to 49 States, the District of Columbia, New York City, Philadelphia, and Puerto Rico. Through their work, this body was able to discover that over 50 percent of pregnancy-related deaths happen between 1 week and 1 year after delivery, leading to the critical extension of the State plan amendment for Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program to 12 months for postpartum coverage. The critical importance of this bill is furthered by the news from my home State of Texas just last week. Effective March 1 of 2024, Texas extended postpartum coverage for the full 12 months for eligible Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program recipients through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. I thank Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas legislature for their continued efforts to protect and defend life, especially the lives of new mothers and newborn babies. Today, I am joined by 740 of my fellow OB/GYNs who are on the Hill with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists urging a ``yes'' vote on this critically important bill. I thank my fellow Representatives, Diana DeGette, Buddy Carter, Robin Kelly, Kat Cammack, and Kathy Castor for working with me on this important legislation. Mr. Speaker, I stand in strong support of H.R. 3838. I urge my fellow Members to vote for its passage today, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3838) to amend title III of the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize Federal support of States in their work to save and sustain the health of mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, to eliminate disparities in maternal health outcomes for pregnancy-related and pregnancy-associated deaths, to identify solutions to improve healthcare quality and health outcomes for mothers, and for other purposes, as amended.