NC H316

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services to extend Medicaid coverage for pregnant women from 60 days to 12 months postpartum, beginning April 1, 2022, under authority granted by the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Removes the limitation restricting coverage for pregnant women to pregnancy-related services and conditions that may complicate pregnancy, allowing full Medicaid benefits during the extended postpartum period as long as federal law permits.

Appropriates $12,344,000 in state recurring funds for 2021-2022 and $50,816,000 for 2022-2023 to match $25,813,000 and $106,264,000 in federal recurring funds respectively.

Eligibility remains limited to pregnant women with incomes at or below 196% of federal poverty guidelines.