SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 27
(By Senators Prezioso, McCabe, Minard, Dempsey, Unger and Foster)
Promoting the West Virginia Perinatal Wellness Study.
Whereas, The number of low-birth weight infants and infant
deaths within the first year of life have both increased; and
Whereas, West Virginia ranks well below other states and the
national average concerning child well-being indicators of first-
of-life mortality and low-birth weight; and
Whereas, Using tobacco products during pregnancy is one of the
leading associated risk factors for low-birth weight and infant
mortality. A 2003 study revealed that over 26 percent of pregnant
women in West Virginia used tobacco during pregnancy; and
Whereas, Thirty-four percent of all infant deaths in 2003 were
attributed to infants whose mothers used tobacco products; and
Whereas, West Virginia has a high percent of infants receiving
neonatal intensive care services; and
Whereas, Many children's health-related organizations have
collaborated to increase public awareness and to address the issues
leading to poor birth outcomes in West Virginia; and
Whereas, The goal of these children's health-related
organizations and the West Virginia Perinatal Wellness Study is to
increase the awareness of legislators, administrators, policymakers and the public with regard to public policy issues that are
essential to improving pregnancy outcomes in West Virginia;
therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate:
That the Senate hereby promotes the West Virginia Perinatal
Wellness Study; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Senate affirms its commitment to
encouraging all West Virginians to promote the health of all
pregnant women in the state; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward
a copy of this resolution to the Governor.