Legislation from the 119th Congress
H.R.7973 – Momnibus Act
119th Congress
Introduced 03/18/2026
Sponsor: Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14)
Cosponsors: 205D
Summary of bill: The Momnibus aims to reduce preventable maternal deaths by addressing health disparities, expanding and diversifying the maternal care workforce, improving access to mental health and substance use treatment, lowering costs, investing in innovation, strengthening research and data, and funding community-based programs that support better outcomes.
Specific to women’s health: The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate among wealthy nations, with many of these deaths preventable. The problem is worsened by significant inequities, with Black women facing a risk of pregnancy-related death three times higher than that of white women. This package of bills takes a broad approach to improving maternal health, to help pregnant and postpartum individuals take control of their care.
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H.R.7417 – Women’s Heart Health Expansion Act of 2026
119th Congress
Introduced 02/09/2026
Sponsor: Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH-3)
Cosponsors: 7D, 4R
Summary of bill: This bill reintroduces the Women’s Heart Health Expansion Act and would reauthorize and expand access to the CDC’s Well-Integrated Screening and Evaluation for Women Across the Nation (WISEWOMAN) program.
Specific to women’s health: By strengthening the CDC’s WISEWOMAN program, this bill would help more women receive screenings, lifestyle support, and early interventions to reduce heart disease and stroke risk.
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H.R.6799 – BRIDGE for Young-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease Act of 2025
119th Congress
Introduced 12/17/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Young Kim (R-CA-40)
Cosponsors: Goldman (D-NY-10), Bacon (R-NE-2), Foushee (D-NC-4)
Summary of bill: This bill would eliminate the 29-month Medicare waiting period for individuals diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease to receive coverage of FDA-approved treatments and therapies.
Specific to women’s health: Women are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s disease, including cases of young-onset Alzheimer’s, and earlier access to treatment could slow disease progression and improve quality of life. Eliminating the waiting period ensures patients can receive timely, FDA-approved care through Medicare when it may be most effective.
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H.R.6682 – Endometriosis CARE Act
119th Congress
Introduced 12/11/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA-5)
Cosponsors: 23D
Summary of bill: This bill would invest $50 million on an annual basis over the course of five years through the National Institutes of Health to conduct research into endometriosis. The bill also directs forresearch into barriers to accessing treatment for the condition as well as education.
Specific to women’s health: Endometriosis is a chronic condition impacting more than 190 million women globally that can cause severe pain, infertility, and reduced quality of life. By supporting studies through the National Institutes of Health and examining barriers to care and education, this bill could improve diagnosis, treatment access, and overall outcomes for those affected.
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H.R.6561 – PREVENT HPV Cancers Act of 2025
119th Congress
Introduced 12/10/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL-14)
Cosponsors: Bacon (R-NE-2), Schrier (D-WA-8)
Summary of bill: This bill would direct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to initiate a $5 million national public awareness campaign about the importance of HPV vaccination in preventing HPV-associated cancers.
Specific to women’s health: Women are disproportionately impacted by certain cancers, such as cervical cancer, that can be prevented by the HPV vaccine. By funding a national campaign through the CDC, this bill could increase vaccination rates and early prevention, ultimately reducing illness and deaths among women.
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S.3231 – Respite CARE Act
119th Congress
Introduced 11/20/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Edward Markey (D-MA)
Cosponsors: Sen. Gillibrand (D-NY) and Sen. Kim (D-NJ)
Summary of bill: This bill would establish grants to develop and expand caregiver support services through state and local governments, nonprofits, senior centers, and other eligible entities.
Specific to women’s health: Women disproportionately assume caregiving responsibilities, which are associated with increased risks of psychological distress, physical strain, and adverse health outcomes. Expanding caregiver support services may mitigate these effects while also improving access to care for older women, who are more likely to require long-term support.
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H.R.5536 – The Headache Education, Access, Diagnosis, and Care Health Equity (HEADACHE) Act*
119th Congress
Introduced 09/19/2025
Sponsor:Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)
Cosponsors: 17D, 2R
Summary of bill: This bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to create a National Headache Disorders Initiative, which would establish a national plan to improve prevention, timely diagnosis, access to care, research coordination, and public awareness. The Initiative would be supported by an advisory committee, including representation from the NIH Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH).
Specific to women’s health: Three out of four people living with migraine – a chronic neurological disease and type of headache disorder – are women. For some women, migraine is triggered by hormonal changes during their menstrual cycle, while others may experience migraine during other times of the month.
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H.R.5239 – Endometrial Cancer Research and Education Act of 2025
119th Congress
Introduced 09/09/2025
Sponsor: Rep. David Scott (D-GA-13)
Cosponsors:Clarke (D-NY-9), Brown (D-OH-11), Moore (D-WI-4), Norton (D-DC-At Large), Sewell (D-AL-7), Tonko (D-NY-20), Johnson (D-GA-4), Thanedar (D-MI-13)
Summary of bill: This bill would require the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to expand and coordinate programs to conduct and support research with respect to endometrial cancer, including a provision to encourage the inclusion of diverse populations in clinical trial studies. The bill also requires coordination of efforts between the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) and the Office of Research on Women’s Health (ORWH). The bill also requires public education through the Centers of Disease Prevention and Control (CDC). The bill includes appropriations to support these efforts.
Specific to women’s health: Endometrial cancer is the one of the most common cancers for women in the United States, and the most common of the female reproductive organs. Disparities exist for women with the condition. While endometrial cancer effects Black women and white women at equal rates, Black women are nearly twice as likely to die from it.
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H.R.4392 / S.2531 – Uterine Fibroid Intervention and Gynecological Health Treatment (U-FIGHT) Act of 2025 *
119th Congress
Introduced 07/15/2025, 07/30/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD)
Cosponsors: 39D
Summary of bill: This bill would authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to increase early detection of and intervention for uterine fibroids.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine fibroids affect an estimated 26 million women of reproductive age in the United States. Research on additional evidence-based strategies to increase early detection in health care settings would help address inequities in fibroid diagnosis and treatment.
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H.R.4648 / S.2408 – Access to Fertility Treatment and Care Act
119th Congress
Introduced 07/23/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-3), Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ)
Cosponsors:
House: Doggett (D-TX-37), Schakowsky (D-IL-9), Foushee (D-NC-4)
Senate: Schumer (D-NY), Duckworth (D-IL), Murray (D-WA), Coons (D-DE), Klobuchar (D-MN), Welch (D-VT)
Summary of bill: This bill would require most health insurance plans, including employer-sponsored plans, Medicaid, Medicare, TRICARE, and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, to cover fertility treatments if they already cover obstetrical care. The bill also prohibits insurers from limiting access, discriminating, or applying higher costs to fertility treatments compared to other medical services.
Specific to women’s health: Nearly one in eight couples experience difficulties getting pregnant or sustaining their pregnancy, and about 12% of women ages 15-49 have received some type of infertility service. Many women start their fertility journey with their women’s health or primary care provider; however, some make seek or require additional health care professionals with subspecialtyexpertise.
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S.2285 – Uterine Cancer Study Act of 2025 *
119th Congress
Introduced 07/15/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE)
Cosponsors: N/A
Summary of bill: This bill would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct a comprehensive study on the relationship between chemical hair straighteners and uterine cancer.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine conditions affect the health and quality of life of millions of women in America, and uterine cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in the United States. Research into the connection between hair straightening products and risk factors for uterine cancer can help support knowledge about potential adverse health effects of such products.
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H.R.4395 – Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act of 2025 *
119th Congress
Introduced 07/15/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY-9)
Cosponsors: 49D
Summary of bill: This bill would fund and expand research into uterine fibroids and public education around the topic.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine fibroids impact nearly 80% of women, causing a variety of painful symptoms including but not limited to pelvic pain, severe menstrual bleeding, and challenges with fertility and pregnancy complications. Black women are disproportionately impacted by uterine fibroids, experiencing higher rates of the condition and more severe symptoms. However, uterine fibroids are under researched and receive less than a half percent of NIH funding.
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H.Res.579 – Supporting the Designation of July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month *
119th Congress
Introduced 07/14/2025
Sponsor: Rep. David Scott (D-GA-13)
Cosponsors: 21D
Summary of bill: This resolution would designate July at Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month.
Specific to women’s health: In spite of its broad impact on the nearly 80% of women who develop uterine fibroids, the condition remains under detected and underdiagnosed. This resolution would help increase awareness and education around uterine fibroids.
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H.R.4074 – Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act of 2025
119th Congress
Introduced 06/23/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-2)
Cosponsors: 25D, 5R
Summary of bill: This bill would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to issue guidance to support coverage of prenatal and postpartum pelvic health services under Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program. The bill would also require the Government Accountability Office to study gaps in Medicaid coverage of these and other services for postpartum women, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to educate health professionals and postpartum women on pelvic health services.
Specific to women’s health: Pelvic health issues are common among women, with pelvic floor disorders affecting one in four women in their lifetime, and the postpartum period makes women particularly susceptible to pelvic floor disorders because of the hormonal and physical changes. Given that more than 40% of births are covered by Medicaid, the CMS has a central role to play in supporting the pelvic health of postpartum women.
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S.1973/H.R.4231 – Treat & Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) of 2025*
119th Congress
Introduced 06/05/2025, 06/27/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA-16)
Cosponsors:
House: 29D, 8R
Senate: 13D, 6R
Summary of bill: The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA), which has been introduced in every Congress since 2013, would expand access to obesity treatment for Medicare recipients by clarifying a statute that prohibits Medicare Part D from covering obesity medications and by expanding access to intensive behavioral therapy.
Specific to women’s health: Obesity is a chronic disease which impacts approximately 42% of American adults. While there is no significant difference in obesity prevalence between men and women, women are disproportionately impacted. Women are at a higher risk of developing comorbidities and have a higher mortality risk than overweight men, and women also experience heightened weight-related stigma and bias.
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S.1834 / H.R.3762 – Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act
119th Congress
Introduced 05/21/2025, 06/05/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Cindy-Hyde Smith (R-MS), Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME-2)
Cosponsors:
House: Young (R-CA-40); McClellan (D-VA-4); Valadao (R-CA-22); Budzinski (D-IL-13); David (D-NC-1); Sykes (D-OH-13); Harder (D-CA-9); Ryan (D-NY-18)
Senate: Kaine (D-VA); Hawley (R-MO); Gillibrand (D-NY)
Summary of bill: This bill would eliminate insurance private insurance cost-share fees on services related to prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum healthcare.
Specific to women’s health: More than 85% of American women experience childbirth at some point in their lives, however, the cost of childbirth remains high, with many women with private insurance reporting struggling to pay associated medical bills.
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S.1882 / H.R.3589 – Reproductive Empowerment and Support through Optimal Restoration Act (RESTORE Act)
119th Congress
Introduced 05/22/2025, 05/23/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-1)
Cosponsors:
House: Moore (R-WV-2), LaMalfa (R-CA-1), Babin (R-TX-36), Harris (R-MD-1)
Senate: Lankford (R-OK), Grassley (R-IA), Cornyn (R-TX)
Summary of bill: This bill aims to expand research, data collection, education, and medical training related to reproductive health conditions, emphasizing restorative reproductive medicine and fertility awareness-based methods, while prohibiting discrimination against providers who decline to participate in assisted reproductive technologies. It also mandates updates to medical coding, expands eligibility for federal grants, and promote education around both female and male infertility.
Specific to women’s health: Reproductive conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and uterine fibroids can impact fertility and create barriers for women who are trying to conceive.
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H.R.3521 – Clinical Trial Modernization Act
119th Congress
Introduced 05/20/2025
Sponsor:Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25)
Cosponsors: Pfluger (R-TX-11), Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), Cohen (D-TN-9), Soto (D-FL-9)
Summary of bill: An act to modernize clinical trials and remove barriers for participation in clinical trials, and for other purposes.
Specific to women’s health: This bill seeks to modernize and streamline clinical trials by removing barriers to participation. The bill seeks to improve access to clinical trials for underrepresented populations by funding outreach, allowing financial support for participant expenses, and excluding modest clinical trial payments from taxable income. For women’s health, this bill could address some of the historical challenges women face in clinical research, such as underrepresentation in trials and the lack of sex and gender-specific data.
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H.R.3480 – Health Coverage for IVF Act of 2025
119th Congress
Introduced 05/19/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14)
Cosponsors: N/A
Summary of bill: A bill to include fertility treatment and care as an essential health benefit.
Specific to women’s health: This bill directly supports women’s health by ensuring that fertility treatment and care are recognized as essential health benefits under the Affordable Care Act. Many fertility treatments—such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) —are critical components of reproductive health that primarily affect women. By mandating insurance coverage for these services, the bill addresses gaps in health care access for women experiencing fertility challenges.
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S.1410 – Find It Early Act
119th Congress
Introduced 04/10/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
Cosponsors: Marshall (R-KS)
Summary of bill: A bill to provide for health coverage with no cost-sharing for additional breast screenings for certain individuals at greater risk for breast cancer.
Specific to women’s health: By removing financial barriers to frequent and necessary screenings, especially for women with dense breast tissue or high-risk factors, the legislation promotes preventive care.
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H.2717 / S.1320 – Servicewomen and Veterans Menopause Research Act *
119th Congress
Introduced 04/08/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Houlahan (D-PA), Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
Cosponsors:
House: Bice (R-OK), Salinas (D-OR)
Senate: Ernst (R-IA)
Summary of bill: A bill to direct the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to take certain steps regarding research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health, and for other purposes.
Specific to women’s health: This bill requires the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to develop and submit a strategic plan to address gaps in knowledge and research concerning menopause, perimenopause, and mid-life women’s health. The plan must identify priority areas for further study, particularly related to treatments for menopause-related symptoms affecting servicewomen and female veterans — populations that often face unique health challenges.
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S.958 – Tech to Save Moms Act
119th Congress
Introduced 03/11/2025
Sponsor: Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM)
Cosponsors: Sullivan (R-AK)
Summary of bill: This bill would establish award grants to eligible entities to evaluate, develop, and expand the use of technology-enabled collaborative learning and capacity building models and improve maternal health outcomes
Specific to women’s health: This bill would support women’s health by expanding access to telehealth, remote monitoring, and digital tools for pregnant and postpartum individuals. It aims to reduce maternal mortality, improve care in underserved areas, and address racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health outcomes through technology-driven solutions.
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H.R.219 – Improving Menopause Care for Veterans Act of 2025
119th Congress
Introduced 02/11/2025
Sponsor: Rep. Julia Brownley (D-CA-26)
Cosponsors: 17D
Summary of bill: This bill requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study and report on the medical services provided by the VA to veterans experiencing perimenopause, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, and menopause itself. The VA must then submit a strategic plan to Congress outlining steps to (1) implement GAO’s recommendations, (2) improve the quality of menopause care, and (3) expand veterans’ access to menopause care.
Specific to women’s health: Each year, 1.3 million American women transition into menopause. This bill, previously introduced in the 118th Congress as H.R.8347, calls for a comprehensive review of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services related to menopause care, including education, outreach, and care initiatives. It mandates a report with recommendations to enhance the VA’s menopause-related services.
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Legislation from the 118th Congress
H.R.9782 – Uterine Cancer Study Act of 2024 *
118th Congress
Introduced 09/24/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-9)
Cosponsors: 26D
Summary of bill: This bill would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct a comprehensive study on the relationship between chemical hair straighteners and uterine cancer.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine conditions affect the health and quality of life of millions of women in America, and uterine cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in the United States. Research into the connection between hair straightening products and risk factors for uterine cancer can help support knowledge about potential adverse health effects of such products.
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H.R. 4572 — Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act of 2023 *
118th Congress
Introduced 07/12/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-9)
Cosponsors: 87D
Summary of bill: This bill directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expand research on uterine fibroids and to develop and disseminate a public education campaign.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine fibroids are one of the most common gynecologic conditions, affecting an estimated 26 million women in the United States. This bill calls for greater investment in research, programs, and education around uterine fibroids.
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H.R. 8565 — Endometriosis CARE Act of 2024 *
118th Congress
Introduced 05/23/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA-05)
Cosponsors: Underwood (D-IL-14), González-Colón (R-PR), Adams (D-NC-12), Sykes (D-OH-13)
Summary of bill: To advance research, promote awareness, and provide patient support with respect to endometriosis.
Specific to women’s health: Endometriosis affects more than 6.5 million women in the United States, often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, and has significant social and economic implications. Dedicated research funding and improving our national education and awareness efforts will help bridge the gaps that currently exist.
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H.R. 8412 – Clinical Trial Modernization Act
118th Congress
Introduced 05/15/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25)
Cosponsors: Buchson (R-IN-8), Darren (D-FL-9), Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), Caraveo (D-CO-8), Cohen (D-TN-9)
Summary of bill: An act to modernize clinical trials and remove barriers for participation in clinical trials, and for other purposes.
Specific to women’s health: This bill seeks to modernize and streamline clinical trials, removing barriers to participation and improving access to these vital studies. For women’s health, this bill could address some of the historical challenges women face in clinical research, such as underrepresentation in trials and the lack of gender-specific data
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H.R. 8347 – Improving Menopause Care for Veterans Act of 2024
118th Congress
Introduced 05/10/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Julia Brownley (D-CA-26)
Cosponsors: Case (D-HI-1), Jackson (D-IL-1)
Summary of bill: To direct the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study on menopause care furnished by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.
Specific to women’s health: 1.3 million American women transition into menopause each year. This bill calls upon a review of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ services and initiatives as it pertains to menopause care and education and outreach initiatives. This bill also requires a report with recommendations for improving the VA’s menopause care.
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H.R. 7418 – To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross income certain compensation to clinical trial participants.
118th Congress
Introduced 05/10/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA-16)
Cosponsors: Houlahan (D-PA-6), Wenstrup (R-OH-2), Pappas (D-NH-1)
Summary of bill: This bipartisan bill would exempt clinical trial payments received by participants from taxes to help make clinical trials more accessible.
Specific to women’s health: By exempting payments received by clinical trial participants from taxation, the bill aims to lower financial barriers to participation in clinical trials. This is especially important for women’s health, as clinical trials often yield gender-specific findings that depend on diverse and inclusive participation to ensure accurate and comprehensive results.
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H.R. 6338 – Veterans’ Cancer Care Coordinator Act of 2023
118th Congress
Introduced 11/09/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29)
Cosponsors: N/A
Summary of bill: This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a pilot program to provide gynecologic cancer care coordination at the VA, including through the designation of a gynecologic cancer care coordinator.
Specific to women’s health: Gynecologic cancers – which includes cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers – impact thousands of women in the United States. This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to pilot a program that would connect veterans diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer with health care providers through a designated gynecologic cancer care coordinator.
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H.R. 8247 — Uterine Fibroids Intervention and Gynecological Health Treatment (U-FIGHT) Act
118th Congress
Introduced 05/06/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH-11)
Cosponsors: 52D
Summary of bill: To authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to award grants to increase early detection of and intervention for uterine fibroids.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine fibroids affect an estimated 26 million women of reproductive age in the United States. Research on additional evidence-based strategies to increase early detection in health care settings would help address inequities in fibroid diagnosis and treatment.
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H.R. 8223/S. 4246 — Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act *
118th Congress
Introduced 05/02/24
Sponsor: Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE-at large), Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
Cosponsors:
House: Clarke (D-NY-9)
Senate: 12D, 3R, 1I
Summary of bill: To improve menopause care and mid-life women’s health by authorizing $275 million over five years for federal research on menopause, health care workforce training, awareness and education efforts, and public health promotion and prevention.
Specific to women’s health: Approximately 6,000 U.S. women reaching menopause every day (around 2 million women a year). Menopause is understudied in research, often misunderstood by providers and patients, and unaddressed in many areas of health care policy. To address these gaps in knowledge, the bill would direct $25 million per year over five years for NIH to award grants to support research and innovation related to menopause and mid-life women’s health.
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S. 626 – Comprehensive Care for Alzheimer’s Act
118th Congress
Introduced 03/08/2024
Sponsor: Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)
Cosponsors: 19R, 8D, 1I
Summary of bill: This bill allows the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to test a Dementia Care Management Model that provides comprehensive care to Medicare beneficiaries with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.
Specific to women’s health: Women make up nearly two-thirds of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and they also tend to be the primary caregivers for family members with dementia. By enabling CMM) to test a Dementia Care Management Model, this bill could improve access to coordinated, comprehensive care for women with Alzheimer’s and related conditions.
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H.R. 7596 — Servicewomen and Veterans Menopause Research Act *
118th Congress
Introduced 03/08/2024
Sponsor: Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-6)
Cosponsors: Bice (R-OK-5), Clarke (D-NY-9), Ryan (D-NY-18), Lawler (R-NY-17), Blunt Rochester (D-DE-at large)
Summary of bill: To direct the Secretaries of Defense and of Veterans Affairs to take certain steps regarding research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health.
Specific to women’s health: Directs the Secretaries to submit a strategic plan that resolves the gaps in knowledge and research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health, and identifies topics in need of further research relating to potential treatments for menopause-related symptoms of women who are members of the Armed Forces or veterans.
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H.R. 7482 — Women’s Heart Health Expansion Act of 2024
118th Congress
Introduced 02/29/24
Sponsor: Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-OH-3)
Cosponsors: DeLauro (D-CT-3)
Summary of bill: To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize and expand access to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) WISEWOMAN program.
Specific to women’s health: The WISEWOMAN program provides cardiovascular disease risk factor screenings and healthy behavior support services to low-income women between 35-64 years old. This bill would expand access to the program for more women who are uninsured or underinsured by giving the CDC, states, and tribal organizations the option to develop additional pathways for referral to the program.
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S.Res. 566 – A Resolution Designating September 2024 as “National Cholesterol Education Month” and September 30, 2024, as “LDL-C Awareness Day” *
118th Congress
Introduced 02/26/24
Sponsor: Sen. Cindy-Hyde Smith (R-MS)
Cosponsors: Peters (D-MI), Padilla (D-CA), Boozman (R-AR), Daines (R-MT), Tillis (R-NC), Sinema (I-AZ), Budd (R-NC), Britt (R-AL), Marshall (R-KS), and Fischer (R-NE)
Summary of bill: This resolution designates National Cholesterol Education Month and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) Awareness Day. The resolution also encourages all individuals in the United States to know their LDL-C number. High levels of LDL-C increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Specific to women’s health: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the U.S., with women facing unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. This resolution, by raising awareness about the risks of high LDL cholesterol, directly supports women’s heart health by encouraging early detection and better management of cholesterol levels—critical factors in preventing CVD and addressing the gender-specific disparities in care and outcomes.
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H.R. 6749 – Menopause Research and Equity Act of 2023
118th Congress
Introduced 12/13/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-9)
Cosponsors: 47D, 10R
Summary of bill: This bill would require the Director of the National Institutes of Health to evaluate the results and status of completed and ongoing research related to menopause, perimenopause, or mid-life women’s health and to conduct and support additional research.
Specific to women’s health: 1.3 million American women transition into menopause each year. This bill seeks to improve women’s health by expanding research on menopause, perimenopause, and mid-life health issues. By directing the NIH to evaluate current research, identify gaps, and support further studies on treatments and symptom management, the bill can enhance understanding of menopause and improve healthcare for women during this critical life stage, ensuring better treatment options and outcomes for women experiencing menopause-related challenges
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H.R. 6693 — Lung Cancer Screening and Prevention Act *
118th Congress
Introduced 12/11/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16)
Cosponsors: Kilmer (D-WA-6), Steel (R-CA-45), Bucshon (R-IN-8), Griffith (R-VA-9)
Summary of bill: To amend the Social Security Act to authorize the coverage of additional lung cancer screening tests under the Medicare program.
Specific to women’s health: Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer of American women. This bill would grant the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services the authority to cover advanced FDA-approved tests without the need for review by the United States Preventive Services Task Force.
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H.R. 5568/S. 2846 — CARE for Moms Act *
118th Congress
Introduced 09/19/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL)
Cosponsors:
House: 43D
Senate: Van Hollen (D-MD), Shaheen (D-NH), Blumenthal (D-CT)
Summary of bill: To improve federal efforts with respect to the prevention of maternal mortality and increasing the quality of perinatal care.
Specific to women’s health: Provides grants for “the purpose of development and sustainability of perinatal quality collaboratives” that “measurably improve perinatal care and perinatal health outcomes for pregnant and postpartum women and their infants.”
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H.R. 4752/S. 2379 — CHANGE Act of 2023 *
118th Congress
Introduced 07/19/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Linda Sánchez (D-CA-38), Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)
Cosponsors:
House: 29D, 5R
Senate: Stabenow (D-MI), Menendez (D-NJ), Wicker (R-MS), Bennet (D-CO), Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Shaheen, (D-NH), Sinema (I-AZ)
Summary of bill: To amend the Social Security Act to provide for certain cognitive impairment detection in the Medicare annual wellness visit and initial preventive physical examination.
Specific to women’s health: Nearly two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease are women. To better detect and diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, this bill would require a cognitive impairment detection tool be used during annual wellness visits and preventive physical examinations.
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H.R. 3838/S. 2415 — Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2023 *
118th Congress
Introduced 06/06/2023; 07/20/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX-26), Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)
Cosponsors:
House: 19D, 5R
Senate: 15D, 5R
Summary of bill: To reauthorize, through fiscal year 2028, federal support for state-based efforts to improve maternal mortality review committees; enhance surveillance of pregnancy-associated and -related deaths; and otherwise improve, and reduce disparities in, maternal health outcomes.
Specific to women’s health: Requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to annually disseminate best practices for preventing maternal mortality and morbidity to hospitals, professional societies, and perinatal quality collaboratives.
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H.R. 3916/S. 1840 — SCREENS for Cancer Act of 2024
118th Congress
Introduced 06/07/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY-25), Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI)
Cosponsors:
House: 41D, 15R
Senate: Collins (R-ME), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Capito (R-WV), Klobuchar (D-MN), Murkowski (R-AK)
Summary of bill: To reauthorize and improve the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) for fiscal years 2024 through 2028.
Specific to women’s health: NBCCEDP helps to detect and treat breast cancer and cervical cancer in low-income, uninsured, and underinsured women. This bill would provide greater funding for NBCCEDP to increase accessibility for women.
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H.R. 3633 — PREVENT HPV Cancers Act of 2023
118th Congress
Introduced 05/24/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL-14)
Cosponsors: Letlow (R-LA-5), Schrier (D-WA-8), Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), Lawler (R-NY-17)
Summary of bill: To require the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to carry out a campaign to raise awareness about human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination with a particular focus on combatting misinformation and increasing vaccination rates.
Specific to women’s health: Reauthorizes through FY2028 the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program and otherwise extends activities to reduce breast and cervical cancer mortality.
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S. 1701 — NIH Clinical Trial Diversity Act of 2023 *
118th Congress
Introduced 05/18/2023
Sponsor: Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ)
Cosponsors: Collins (R-ME), Gillibrand (D-NY)
Summary of bill: To set out requirements to increase the diversity of clinical trial participants and to foster participation in clinical trials. Requires that clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) include certain information related to diversity. Instructs the NIH and the Food and Drug Administration to carry out a national campaign to increase awareness about the need for diverse clinical trials.
Specific to women’s health: Studies must include a rationale that specifies the strategies that will be used to enroll and retain participants across sex categories. A trial sponsor must also annually share demographic data, including sex, of clinical trial participants with the NIH.
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S. 1606 – Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act*
118th Congress
Introduced 05/15/2023
Sponsor: Sen. Cory Booker [D-NJ]
Cosponsors: 31D, 1I
Summary of bill: This bill directs multi-agency efforts to improve maternal health through efforts including but not limited to growing and diversifying the maternal health workforce; establishing various grants and other programs, including ones related to maternal health disparities and maternal behavioral health; testing alternative payment models for perinatal care in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP); addressing maternal health during public health emergencies; and supporting training, technology, and telehealth initiatives.
Specific to women’s health: The United States has the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, yet most of these pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. This crisis is compounded by stark racial disparities, with Black women being three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to white women. This package of bills offers a comprehensive approach to improving maternal health by focusing on training, care coordination, workforce development, data collection, and community engagement to empower pregnant and postpartum individuals in managing their health and care.
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H.R. 2630/S. 652 — Safe Step Act *
118th Congress
Introduced 04/13/2023; 03/02/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH-2), Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)
Cosponsors:
House: 115D, 67R
Senate: 25D, 12R, 2I
Summary of bill: To require group health plans to establish an exception to medication step-therapy protocol in specified cases, to implement a clear process for requesting an exception, and to respond to requests within a specific timeline.
Specific to women’s health: This bill would allow women more timely access to medications that treat their conditions by providing for changes in step therapy if the step therapy required is potentially ineffective, would cause an adverse reaction, or if current medication is effective.
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H.Res. 217/S.Res. 90 — Supporting the designation of March 2023 as Endometriosis Awareness Month *
118th Congress
Introduced 03/09/2023, 03/01/2023
Sponsor: Rep. David Scott (D-GA-13), Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)
Cosponsors:
House: 15D, 2R
Senate: Capito (R-WV), Cantwell (D-WA), Klobuchar (D-MN), Booker (D-NJ), Blumenthal (D-CT), Hirono (D-HI)
Summary of bill: To designate March as Endometriosis Awareness Month and to support the goals and ideals of Endometriosis Awareness Month.
Specific to women’s health: Endometriosis affects an estimated one in 10 women in the United States. This bill would recognize the importance of endometriosis as a health issue for women that requires far greater attention, public awareness, and education, as well as encourage additional research on endometriosis.
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Legislation from the 117th Congress
H.R. 1117 — Advancing Safe Medications for Moms and Babies Act of 2023 *
118th Congress
Introduced 02/21/2023
Sponsor: Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL-14)
Cosponsors: 28D, 2R
Summary of bill: To direct the National Institutes of Health to prioritize research projects on new and existing medications for pregnant and lactating women. Establishes a national online clearinghouse with information about clinical trials that enroll pregnant and lactating women, an advisory committee to help coordinate federal activities with respect to clinical research for pregnant and lactating women, and an educational campaign on the importance of including pregnant and lactating women in clinical research.
Specific to women’s health: Establishes programs and requirements to support the inclusion of pregnant and lactating women in clinical research. Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to align the Food and Drug Administration’s regulations for human subjects in clinical trials with other departmental regulations for pregnant women in clinical research.
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H.R. 5030/S. 2706 — DIVERSE Trials Act *
117th Congress
Introduced 08/13/2021, 08/10/2021
Sponsor: Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA-36), Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ)
Cosponsors:
House: 50D, 4R
Senate: 18D, 7R, 1I
Summary of bill: To require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue guidance on promoting meaningful demographic and geographic diversity in patient engagement, enrollment, and participation.
Specific to women’s health: Requires that the Secretary of Health and Human Services issues draft guidance that addresses how to conduct clinical trials with meaningful racial, ethnic, age, gender, and geographic diversity.
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H.Res. 1129/S.Res. 637 — A resolution expressing support for viewing women’s health as a critical issue for the economy and workforce of the United States and for advancing the health and well-being of all people. *
117th Congress
Introduced 05/17/2022
Sponsor: Rep. Janice Schakowsky (D-IL-9), Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)
Cosponsors:
House: 18D
Senate: 9D, 1I
Summary of bill: To recognize that women’s health is a critical issue for the U.S. economy and workforce and to support increased health research focused on women.
Specific to women’s health: Supports a doubling of the current amount of women’s research focused on Alzheimer’s disease, coronary artery disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
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H.R. 2007 — Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act of 2021 *
117th Congress
Sponsor: Rep. Yvette Clark (D-NY-9)
Cosponsors: 10D
Summary of bill: Improving funding for research and increasing education about uterine fibroids.
Specific to women’s health: Uterine fibroids are a significant public health issue affecting about 26 million American women, with Black women at increased risk for the disease compared to white women.
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H.R. 959 / S. 346 — Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act *
117th Congress
Sponsor: Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14)
Cosponsors: 118D, 0R
Summary of bill: To end preventable maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity in the United States and close disparities in maternal health outcomes.
Specific to women’s health: The United States leads the developed world in maternal mortality rates, but the majority of these pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. This maternal health crisis is marked by significant racial disparities, with Black women three times more likely than white women to die from pregnancy-related causes.
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S. 411 — MOMMA’s Act *
117th Congress
Sponsor: Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL)
Cosponsors: Duckworth (D-IL), Shaheen (D-NH), Brown (D-OH), Stabenow (D-MI), Blumenthal (D-CT), Klobuchar (D-MN), Smith (D-MN), Van Hollen (D-MD), Sanders (I-VT)
Summary of bill: To improve Federal efforts with respect to the prevention of maternal mortality, and for other purposes.
Specific to women’s health: “To develop and implement, through a robust, multi-stakeholder process, maternal safety bundles to assist States, perinatal quality collaboratives, and health care systems in aligning national, State, and hospital-level quality improvement efforts to improve maternal health outcomes, specifically the reduction of maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity”
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H.R. 1474/S. 56 — Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Act
117th Congress
Sponsors: Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
Cosponsors:
House: 41D, 5R
Senate: Collins (R-MA), Sinema (D-AZ), Shaheen (D-NH), Reed (D-RI), Tillis (R-NC), Van Hollen (D-MD), Smith (D-MN)
Summary of bill: Authorizes grants for training and support services for families and caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.
Specific to women’s health: ““(e) Coordination.—The Secretary shall coordinate with the Director of the Office on Women’s Health and the Director of the Office of Minority Health in order to ensure that women, minorities, and patients who live in medically underserved communities are able to benefit from the training and support services funded through grants awarded under subsection (b).”
Legislation from the 116th Congress
S. 4269 — Mothers and Newborns Success Act *
116th Congress, not reintroduced in 117th Congress
Sponsor: Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA)
Cosponsors: Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)
Summary of bill: To take certain actions to improve, and reduce racial, ethnic, and geographic disparities in, maternal health outcomes. Bill provides statutory authority for grants that support state efforts to reduce disparities in maternal health; and increased access to maternal and obstetrics care in rural areas, including through telehealth.
Specific to women’s health: Addresses critical needs in the fight to reduce and prevent maternal and infant mortality and will help to close nationwide racial, ethnic, and geographic disparities in maternal health outcomes.
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* Designates legislation formally endorsed by SWHR
