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Committee hears testimony on maternal and reproductive health gaps affecting Latine and Black communities
Summary
A legislative select committee convened community groups, clinicians and state health officials to examine reproductive and maternal health disparities, focusing on historical coercion, workforce shortfalls, and policy steps — including community‑based solutions and new state and federal initiatives.
The Select Committee on Latina Inequities convened an informational hearing that combined historical context, lived experience and state program updates to address persistent reproductive and maternal health disparities.
Chair opened the hearing by saying it would center state data and community experience and set goals to identify structural and legislative steps to close gaps. Community advocates and service providers described a legacy of coercive practices, unequal access, and cultural and language barriers that continue to shape outcomes.
Clarissa Ramirez of California Latinas for Reproductive Justice reviewed a century of sterilization abuses and noted the 2021 forced‑sterilization compensation program created by AB 1007. “It was seen as a personal failing that somebody else did this to them,” Ramirez said, summarizing survivors’ accounts and the documentation that drove legislative remedies.
State public health officials outlined current programs and policy work. Matt Green of the California Department of Public Health highlighted the newly launched Advancing Black Birth Equity Together action plan and data showing Black birthing people face much higher pregnancy‑related mortality. Chris Esguerra of the Department of Health Care Services described updates to about 42 policies to increase access and make doulas and community health workers easier to enroll as Medi‑Cal providers.
Public commenters and stakeholders urged investment in community‑based organizations (promotoras), lactation support, midwifery education pathways, and restoration of immigrant Medi‑Cal coverage. The chair closed by promising follow‑up on recommendations and potential budget actions.
The hearing produced no formal votes; it was informational and intended to guide future legislation and budget priorities.
