S.1343: MOMMIES Act
Overview
The MOMMIES Act (S. 1343) would extend Medicaid coverage for births and postpartum medical care to all women in the United States (from around 50 percent who are currently covered). The bill would also extend coverage for the “postpartum period” from 60 days to 365 days after birth. Medicaid would also be required to adopt mandatory minimum reimbursement levels for pregnancy and childbirth care. Additionally, this bill would establish a Maternity Care Demonstration Project in 15 states to serve as a maternity care home model aimed at Medicaid, as well as increase access to doula care for pregnant women on Medicaid.
H.R. 2602 is the House companion bill introduced by Rep. Ayanna Pressley.
Talking Points
- Nearly one in five maternal deaths occur between 6 weeks and a year following childbirth, of these deaths 58% are considered preventable. Provided universal postpartum medical coverage will save the lives of hundreds of mothers each year.