Wisconsin Just Made a Game-Changing Move for New Moms

The Wisconsin Senate passed Senate Bill 23 yesterday, extending Medicaid postpartum care for new mothers from 60 days to one year. The bill received bipartisan support and is now headed to the Assembly for a vote before reaching Governor Evers for final approval.

Senate President Mary Felzkowski, who voted in favor, emphasized the importance of continued care for new mothers. “Healthy moms raise strong babies, and maintaining access to care reduces healthcare costs down the road,” she said. This extension is especially important given that 30% of pregnancy-related deaths occur between 43 and 365 days after childbirth.

Wisconsin joins a growing number of states, including California, Illinois, New Jersey, Oregon, and Virginia, that have extended postpartum care to one year, aiming to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce health disparities. Senate Bill 23 would allow eligible mothers to receive Medicaid benefits for up to 365 days after childbirth, addressing complications such as postpartum depression and hypertension.

Introduced in February, the bill has garnered broad support and aims to amend Medicaid eligibility requirements. If passed by the Assembly, it will move to the governor for approval. The extended postpartum care is expected to help prevent serious health issues and reduce long-term healthcare costs.

The bill represents a crucial step in supporting new mothers and ensuring they receive the care needed to recover fully and care for their newborns. By extending postpartum care, Wisconsin is helping ensure that all new mothers, and families, regardless of their financial situation, have the healthcare they need to stay healthy and strong.