Sen. Brown visits Akron Children’s, discusses legislation to help combat Ohio’s high infant mortality rates

Sen Sherrod Brown listens to Dr. Elena Rossi during his visit to the Mahoning Valley.

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown hosted a press conference at Akron Children’s Hospital’s Beeghly campus in Boardman, Ohio, to announce legislation designed to standardize federal reporting of infant and childhood deaths as a way to improve prevention efforts.

“No parent should have to grieve the loss of a child without access to answers and help,” said Brown.

Also speaking was Dr. Elena Rossi, neonatologist and associate chair of pediatrics for Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley, who said that 3 infants die each week in Ohio.

“Two of these can be explained, but the cause of the third is oftentimes unknown,” said Dr. Rossi. “This is where the legislation can help.”

Mahoning County Health Commissioner Patricia Sweeney, discussed how the legislation would support local efforts to combat infant mortality. And Dee Traylor, who coordinates the Resource Mothers Program at Humility of Mary Health Partners, explained the need for community support for many of the young mothers who participate in her program.

More than 20 local, state and national organizations support the legislation, called the Sudden Unexpected Death Data Enhancement and Awareness Act.

Watch the news coverage below for more information.