2023 Assembly Joint Resolution 46
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: proclaiming May 2023 to be Maternal Health Month in Wisconsin.
Whereas, the family, in which mothers perform a crucial role, is a major social institution in Wisconsin and throughout the world that provides tremendous value to both its members and society as a whole; and
Whereas, mothers have an indispensable role in building and transforming society and culture and moving our state, country, and world forward, remaining steadfast in their pursuit of a better and brighter future for their children; and
Whereas, mothers have a unique bond with their children, and the health of mothers is directly tied to the health of their children both prenatal and postpartum; and
Whereas, the mental and behavioral health of mothers is crucial to the health of their families and children; and
Whereas, the suicide rate for mothers within 365 days postpartum in Wisconsin is 2.0 per 100,000; and
Whereas, in 2021, there were a total of 56 pregnancy-associated deaths within 365 days postpartum, a mortality ratio of 90.6 per 100,000 live births; and
Whereas, Wisconsin has significant racial disparities in maternal mortality rates, with pregnancy-related mortality rates for non-Hispanic Black mothers five times greater than non-Hispanic White mothers, which must be addressed; and
Whereas, the work of mothers is of paramount importance but is often undervalued, unnoticed, and underappreciated; and
Whereas, mothers are breadwinners, community leaders, advocates, allies, and pillars of the family that have, for generations, blazed new paths, opened up new possibilities, and widened circles of opportunity for their daughters and sons; and
Whereas, Wisconsin has a proven record of meeting challenges and creating positive change, and we are committed to making mothers’ lives better and ensuring their health and prosperity; and
Whereas, Mother’s Day is celebrated in May across Wisconsin and nationwide; and
Whereas, mothers and the institution of motherhood are worthy of honor and affirmation; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin Legislature call upon the people of Wisconsin to observe May 2023 as Maternal Health Month in Wisconsin with honor, affirmation, and respect for mothers in our state; and, be it further
Resolved, That the legislature calls upon the people of Wisconsin to express their honor, affirmation, love, respect, and gratitude to mothers everywhere; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall transmit copies of this resolution to the governor of Wisconsin.
Senator Chris Kapenga
President of the Senate
Representative Robin J. Vos
Speaker of the Assembly
Edward A. Blazel
Assembly Chief Clerk
