Governor Signs Legislation for Safety P.I.N. Grant Program

Press Release

Governor Mike Pence today signed HEA 1004, providing for the safety P.I.N. (Protecting Indiana's Newborns) grant program.

"From the outset of my administration, we have been committed to reducing Indiana's rate of infant mortality. Currently, on average, seven Hoosier babies for every 1,000 births do not live to see their first birthday, and reducing this rate remains the top priority of the Indiana State Department of Health. But this is not just about the statistics--this is about reducing the heartbreak of infant mortality for Hoosier families.

"By creating the safety P.I.N. grant program, focused on protecting Indiana's newborns, our General Assembly has helped provide additional resources to combat this urgent public health problem, and I commend leaders in both political parties for putting our most vulnerable children and families first.

"In the days and months ahead, my administration will continue to work tirelessly to equip expectant mothers, Hoosier families, and healthcare providers with the resources and information they need to help reduce the heartbreak of infant mortality in our state."

The legislation takes effect July 1 of this year, and the program will be administered by the Indiana State Department of Health.

"Infant mortality has many causes, but we know how to combat it," said Dr. Jerome Adams, Commissioner of the Indiana State Department of Health. "Local programs that help expectant mothers get prenatal care, understand the importance of safe sleep, encourage and make it easier for new moms to breastfeed, and help expectant mothers to get off drugs, alcohol and tobacco, are absolutely essential if we are going to save babies' lives."

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