Aug 31, 2023, 6:05pm

By: Carmen Grant

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The average maternal mortality rate in Suffolk County is 15% higher than the state average, according to data from the Department of Health.

Data from the U.S. Government Accountability Office also found that women of color are up to three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related complications compared to white women.

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand was in Huntington Station Thursday to push a $180 million plan to address the issue.

Letter to Congress

Gillibrand says the funding would allow organizations like the Health Welfare Council of Long Island to continue working to help eliminate racial bias facing women of color in maternal care.

Gillibrand also says that a separate measure signed by President Joe Biden addresses mental health by providing a 24-hour national hotline for struggling mothers, pregnant women and new mothers.