Bill > LD865

This bill requires the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to provide MaineCare (Maine's Medicaid program) reimbursement for lactation services in hospitals and homes for eligible individuals. The bill defines lactation services as educational or consultation services related to breastfeeding and specifies that these services can be provided by licensed healthcare professionals or by consultants certified by a national organization approved by the department. Notably, the bill extends eligibility for these services to parents breastfeeding children covered under MaineCare or the Children's Health Insurance Program, even if the parent themselves are not otherwise MaineCare eligible. The department is required to apply for a federal state plan amendment by January 1, 2026, to implement these reimbursements, specifically requesting approval for services performed by International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners certified consultants. After federal approval, the department must adopt implementing rules within six months. The goal of the bill is to improve access to lactation support for families by ensuring these important healthcare services are financially accessible through MaineCare.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=865&snum=132