FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 01, 2024
Contact: Emma Bittner
(972) 510-3395 | Emma.Bittner@younginvincibles.org

Postpartum Medicaid Care for One Year Is Finally A Reality In Texas

(Austin, TX) – Today, House Bill 12, a law to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to twelve months, went into effect.

Young Invincibles has worked diligently for several years to get this legislation passed and implemented at its fullest potential. A previous version of this bill was signed in the 87th session to increase coverage to six months. However, the state did not receive the necessary federal funding. 

Extending postpartum coverage is critical to those who have given birth and their children’s well-being, and this health care must be comprehensive. One-third of maternal deaths occur 43 days to one year after pregnancy, and Texas’ Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee found that nine out of ten pregnancy-related deaths were preventable. In the current state of reproductive health, ensuring postpartum care for twelve months is essential to reduce the state’s maternal mortality rate and save lives. 

Though the fight for reproductive care continues, Young Invincibles celebrates this milestone as extended postpartum Medicaid coverage becomes a reality.

In response, Kasey Corpus, Southern Policy and Advocacy Manager at Young Invincibles said: 

“The extension of postpartum Medicaid coverage is life-saving. Providing twelve months of postpartum care is crucial for the well-being of pregnant Texans and their children.  

Reproductive health care in Texas faces constant threats, making expanded Medicaid coverage following birth an absolute necessity. After years of tireless advocacy on this issue, we are thrilled to witness its implementation and full effect today. Texans will finally have access to the essential care they deserve.”

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Young Invincibles (YI) is a national advocacy and policy nonprofit organization focused on amplifying the voice of young people in the political process at the local, state, and federal levels. YI focuses on issues impacting young adults ages 18 to 34 in higher education, health care, economic security, and civic engagement. Our offices include Washington, D.C., California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Texas. For more information, please contact Emma Bittner at (972) 510-3395 or emma.bittner@younginvincibles.org