Senate panel hears proposal to fund African American Homeplace maternal program

Senator Kelly Champion introduced Senate File 1691 on behalf of the African American Homeplace Initiative, proposing a $1,000,000 appropriation in fiscal year 2026 to address disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes for African American families.

Supporters told the committee the program provides nonmedical wraparound services — including acupuncture, massage, mental-health supports, financial education, parenting and birth-preparation classes, CPR training, doula and lactation assistance — delivered outside clinical settings to improve access and culturally congruent care.

"Hi. My name is Sarita Howard Oduunihi, and I am the chief operating officer for African American Homeplace," testified Sarita Howard Oduunihi, who described the initiative as "an oasis for families within Hennepin County where women, their babies can overcome and receive not a medical wrap around support as an extension of the community." Howard said a current pilot shows an immediate "2 to 1 return on investment" and that services can reduce medically costly crises by preventing complications.

Senators asked whether the bill’s language identifies a specific grantee; Senator Aki noted the bill text references a "birth justice collaborative" but the presenters said the appropriation is intended for Homeplace in Hennepin County and that they would work to clarify statutory language. Senator Abler and other members voiced support for the concept and cited potential long-term savings in health-care costs from prevention.

No formal vote was recorded on final passage. Committee minutes show Senator Champion moved to lay Senate File 1691 over for possible inclusion in a future omnibus bill. The chair announced the bill will be "laid over for possible inclusion."

If the committee or sponsors revise the bill language to specify the recipient or grant mechanism, that change will determine how funds are disbursed and whether the appropriation would be statewide or directed to the Hennepin County program. The committee did not adopt substantive amendments during this hearing, and legislative staff will prepare clarifying language at the request of members.

Senate File 1691 will be considered further in future committee work as part of omnibus bill negotiations.