Maternal and Infant Syphilis Prevention Act

This bill aims to cut cases of syphilis passed from mothers to babies by improving testing, treatment, and education in Medicaid, CHIP, and Indian health programs. It responds to a sharp rise in syphilis, which can cause serious harm and even infant death if not caught and treated. Lawmakers note that many states test only early in pregnancy; adding tests later in pregnancy and at delivery can catch more cases. Timely testing and treatment during pregnancy could prevent almost 90% of cases in babies .

Within 12 months, federal health officials must share clear best practices with states and Indian health programs. This includes expanding screening for pregnant women and newborns, educating doctors and patients, using telehealth (with interpreters and materials in multiple languages), boosting tests in the third trimester and at delivery, and improving treatment. A public report on how these steps are put in place is due two years after the law takes effect .

Key points

• Who is affected: Pregnant women, newborns, families, and providers in Medicaid, CHIP, and Indian health programs .
• What changes: Guidance to expand testing and treatment, more education, telehealth support, and stronger third-trimester and delivery testing .
• Why it matters: Syphilis is rising; later-pregnancy testing and quick treatment can prevent most cases in babies .
• When: Guidance due within 12 months; public progress report due within 2 years .