The Impact of COVID-19 on Birth Rates: Considerations for Planning & Policy

Birth rates in the United States have been gradually declining for over a decade, influenced by social, policy, and economic factors. While the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant, though brief, drop in birth rates, they are now back to pre-pandemic levels. These smaller cohorts will have future implications for education, the labor market, and the social safety net.

Join the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine for a webinar on why declining birth rates matter for decision-making at state and local levels. This webinar will provide an overview of the impacts of COVID-19 on birth rates in the United States and suggest policy and planning considerations for decision-makers.

Speakers will include:

• Anne Pebley, University of California, Los Angeles (Moderator)

• Melissa Kearney, University of Maryland

• Jenna Nobles, University of Wisconsin--Madison 

• Alfred Sundara, Maryland Department of Planning

Sponsor: National Science Foundation

*Additional speakers to be added.