Cortez Masto, Hyde-Smith Introduce Legislation to Expand Research on Infant Monitoring Technology to Combat SUIDS

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) introduced bipartisan legislation to authorize a research study on the use of medical devices to help reduce the rate of American babies lost to sudden infant death syndrome or sudden unexpected infant death (SIDS/SUIDS).

The Baby Observation Act could expand the use of home cardiorespiratory monitors by requiring a study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the effectiveness of these monitors in preventing SIDS/SUIDS.

"No parent should ever have to endure the heartbreak of suddenly losing their newborn baby," said Senator Cortez Masto. "I'm proud to support legislation that will allow us to better understand and prevent sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and expand the toolbox for parents looking to keep their children safe."

"While many causes and factors go into the infant mortality rates in Mississippi and around the country, we know that SIDS and SUIDS contribute to these tragic mortality rates. Our legislation would focus attention on home monitors that may prove to be an answer to helping prevent the heartbreaking loss of these beautiful babies," said Senator Hyde-Smith.

In addition to requiring the HHS Secretary to study cardiorespiratory monitors, the legislation would also require HHS to examine new models of care to improve an infant's home sleeping environment. Without affecting the budget, the study will help determine whether home cardiorespiratory monitors have shown sufficient efficacy in preventing SUID to support coverage by private and public health insurance plans.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.-02).

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

Senator Cortez Masto has consistently fought to ensure all Nevadans can access high-quality, affordable health care. She has led efforts to lower drug costs for seniors, hold Big Pharma accountable, and expand Medicare drug price negotiation. She has also championed legislation to strengthen Medicare-funded behavioral health services and telehealth services, as well as protect access to ambulance services in rural and underserved areas.

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