RICHMOND, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin ceremonially signed the ‘Safety Bundle’ bill on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The bill requires all hospitals, licensed birthing centers, and free-standing emergency departments to adopt standardized protocols, known as “safety bundles,” for identifying obstetric emergencies for both inpatient and outpatient care. SB 1279, patroned by Senator Emily Jordan, and HB 2573, patroned by Delegate Cliff Hayes, were originally introduced by Delegate Kim Taylor.

“As a mother and Delegate, I have worked tirelessly for the last four years to address the urgent health challenges faced by mothers in Virginia, ensuring new and expecting mothers have access to vital resources and care,” said Del. Taylor. “I am proud to see my bill become law, despite partisan maneuvers, as it reflects my commitment to prioritizing maternal health and uplifting families. I appreciate Governor Youngkin’s leadership in supporting these efforts. As your Delegate, I will continue working to make Virginia the best state to be a mother and raise a family.”

The Governor signed the legislation at Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, Center for Healthy Living. As a part of the initiative, the Center introduced quarterly Saturday clinic hours for Medicaid members in Petersburg. Since the inception of the project, postpartum visit rates have increased by 16 percent.

“Virginia’s mothers bringing a new life into the world are healthier today, with maternal mortality declining by 50 percent over the past three years. And yet, we still have work to do,” said Gov. Youngkin. “The ‘Safety Bundle’ bills bring a new level of comprehensive care for moms as we work to make Virginia the healthier.”