Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a new law aimed at expanding insurance coverage during and after pregnancy in order to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates, particularly among Black Illinoisans. The law mandates that insurers providing state-regulated health care plans cover pregnancy and postpartum services, including midwife services, doula visits, and lactation consultants for up to 12 months after pregnancy. Licensed or certified midwives must be covered by 2025, while all other services will be covered by 2026.
Advocates and sponsors of the bill, Rep. Robyn Gabel and Sen. Lakesia Collins, joined Pritzker in highlighting the importance of addressing maternal health disparities, especially for women of color. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton emphasized the need for reproductive care and access to necessary services for mothers and babies.
In addition to the new law, Pritzker and lawmakers celebrated a federal waiver expanding Medicaid coverage for services such as housing and violence intervention. The waiver, effective earlier this month, provides more matching funds to Illinois for programs addressing root causes of health disparities. State leaders expressed optimism about tackling interconnected issues like housing, healthcare, and food security to improve overall health in vulnerable populations.
The signing of the new law and the Medicaid waiver highlight Illinois’ commitment to improving maternal health outcomes and addressing social determinants of health disparities across the state. With these initiatives in place, the hope is to see a decrease in infant and maternal mortality rates and improve overall health and well-being for all Illinois residents.
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