What We’re Watching in Congress – November 2019

With the end of the year swiftly approaching, Members of Congress have indicated they have quite a few priorities they hope to attend to before 2019 draws to a close. Here are a few things we are keeping our eyes on at 1,000 Days:

An upcoming funding deadline

Funding for the federal government is currently set to run out on November 21st, following a short-term extension passed in September. House and Senate Appropriators are still working to finalize an agreement about long-term funding, leading to speculation that another stop-gap bill will be necessary. 1,000 Days will continue to monitor the Appropriations process and urge Members to prioritize funding for programs that support the health of moms and babies everywhere.

Supporting investments in global nutrition

On October 30, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed a global nutrition resolution sponsored by Rep. Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA). House Resolution 189, which has 131 co-sponsors, recognizes the importance of sustained U.S. leadership to accelerate progress against maternal and child malnutrition and helps to highlight the vital role of nutrition in the 1,000-day window. 1,000 Days is grateful to the House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engel, Ranking Member Michael McCaul, Representatives Marshall, McGovern and the many co-sponsors of the resolution for shining a light on the foundational role of nutrition in a child’s cognitive and physical development.

Progress on legislation to protect pregnant workers

On October 22, the House Committee on Education & Labor Subcommittee held a hearing on the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (H.R. 2694). This bipartisan bill requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees and ensures that workers cannot be discriminated or retaliated against for seeking those accommodations. While similar laws are already in place in 27 states, H.R. 2694 would create a national standard ensuring that a woman’s safety and well-being at work are not dependent on her zip code. 1,000 Days submitted a letter to the Committee supporting this important legislation.