Bill > S3274

This bill, known as the Healthy MOM Act, aims to improve maternity healthcare coverage and access for pregnant women across multiple healthcare systems. It introduces a special enrollment period for pregnant individuals, allowing them to sign up for health insurance at any point during their pregnancy, which is particularly important for young adults and women in communities of color who often face barriers to healthcare access. The bill mandates that health insurance plans, including group and individual plans, employer plans, and federal employee health benefit plans, provide comprehensive maternity coverage for all pregnant individuals, including dependent children, regardless of age. Additionally, the bill seeks to extend Medicaid income eligibility standards for pregnant individuals and require 12-month continuous coverage for pregnant and postpartum individuals under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The legislation is motivated by significant health disparities, particularly the higher maternal mortality rates among Black and American Indian/Alaska Native women, and aims to improve health outcomes by ensuring timely and affordable access to maternity care. The changes would be implemented gradually, with most provisions taking effect on or after January 1, 2027, and the bill does not invalidate any existing laws that provide equal or greater protections for health plan enrollees.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3274/all-info