; and (C) evaluating the effectiveness of respectful maternity care compliance offices on maternal health outcomes and patient and family experiences, especially for minority patients and their families. (2) Study (A) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall, through a contract with an independent research organization, conduct a study on strategies to address disrespect or bias on the basis of race, ethnicity, or another protected class in the delivery of maternity care services. (B) Components of study The study shall include the following: (i) An assessment of the reports submitted to the Secretary from the respectful maternity care compliance offices pursuant to subsection (b)(4). (ii) Based on such assessment, recommendations for potential accountability mechanisms related to cases of disrespect or bias on the basis of race, ethnicity, or another protected class in the delivery of maternity care services at hospitals and other birth settings. Such recommendations shall take into consideration medical and non-medical factors that contribute to adverse patient experiences and maternal health outcomes. (C) Report The Secretary shall submit to the Congress and make publicly available a report on the results of the study under this paragraph. (d) Authorization of appropriations To carry out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 2021 through 2026. 6. GAO report (a) In general Not later than 2 years after date of enactment of this Act and every 2 years thereafter, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Congress and make publicly available a report on the establishment of respectful maternity care compliance offices within hospitals, health systems, and other maternity care settings. (b) Matters included The report under paragraph (1) shall include the following: (1) Information regarding the extent to which hospitals, health systems, and other maternity care settings have