Yakym Testifies in Support of the Baby Observation Act to Expand Research on Infant Monitoring Technology

Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) testified during Member Day before the House Energy and Commerce Committee, in support of H.R. 2168, the Baby Observation Act (BO’s Act). This legislation is aimed at increasing awareness of and paving the way for expanded access to medical devices that can help save infant lives.

“As a father, I know how overwhelming and frightening those first weeks with a newborn can be,” Rep. Yakym said. “The Newton family’s inspiring efforts have brought crucial attention to the lifesaving potential of infant monitoring technology, and their advocacy is why we must better study and understand these devices. This legislation was a cause close to my dear late friend Jackie Walorski’s heart, and I am committed to seeing it through, not only to honor her legacy, but, God willing, to help protect and save the lives of children.”

Read the full bill text here.

Background:

“BO’s Act” is named after Lakeville, Indiana native Bo Newton, who benefited greatly from this technology.

About 2,500 sudden infant deaths occur each year in the United States.

SIDS is the leading cause of death among babies between 1 month and 1 year of age.

“BO’s Act” requires the Secretary of HHS to study the use of home cardiorespiratory monitors (medical devices that track the respiratory effort and heart rate of a sleeping infant) to reduce and prevent sleep-related sudden infant death syndrome or sudden unexpected infant death.