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.