 A federal program was meant to keep rural emergency rooms open, but it may have dangerous consequences for mothers and babies. Correspondent Jennifer King has more. In Alabama, mothers and babies may be at risk as hospitals close their birthing units. Small hospitals say to stay open, they need to qualify for federal lifeline funding designated for rural emergency hospitals with fewer than 50 beds, 24-7 emergency care, and no inpatient services. That includes obstetrics.