Wells Act Targets Hospitals After Black Mom Gave Birth Roadside
Bill Proposed to Protect Laboring Mothers After Indiana Woman Gives Birth in Truck
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Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL), a longtime maternal health advocate, is sponsoring legislation in response to a video showing a Black woman in Indiana being discharged from a hospital while in active labor, subsequently giving birth in her truck.
The WELLS Act
Kelly has announced the Women Expansion for Learning and Labor Safety Act (WELLS Act). This bill woudl require hospitals to create a “Safe Discharge Labor Plan” before discharging any patient showing signs of labor. The plan would include:
- Clinical justification for discharge
- Assessment of travel distance and time
- Documentation of patient understanding
- Mandatory racial bias training for health workers
The legislation is a direct response to the experience of Mercedes Wells, a mother of four whose story has sparked renewed discussion about the treatment of Black women in healthcare settings.
“Mercedes’s courage to speak out and push for change knows no bounds,” Kelly stated to NBC News. “Her bravery and advocacy will help other moms receive the care and treatment they deserve.”
Racial Bias Training
The bill also mandates racial bias training for healthcare workers,building on previous initiatives like the training undertaken by Sesame Place after accusations of racism.