HI HCR16

Request that the Department of Human Services estimate the budget appropriation and legislative action needed to expand Med-QUEST coverage to all eligible post-partum women for twelve months following childbirth.

Current Medicaid pregnancy coverage expires sixty days after childbirth, leaving many women without health insurance during a critical recovery period despite being at increased risk of pregnancy-related death.

Adequate medical attention could prevent three out of five post-partum deaths according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Department of Human Services must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2021 Regular Session.

At least six states including California, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, South Carolina, and Tennessee are working to extend Medicaid coverage to one full year after childbirth.