House Lawmakers Advance HAP-Supported Maternal Health Bills

May 06, 2024

House lawmakers have advanced two HAP-supported maternal health bills that are part of a broader effort to address disparities in care.

This afternoon, the House passed House Bill 2097, which would expand Medicaid coverage of at-home blood pressure monitors for pregnant and postpartum patients. The bill passed the chamber 164–37. Additionally, House lawmakers unanimously approved House Bill 1608, which would extend Medicaid coverage for doula services and create the doula advisory board.

Last month, HAP wrote letters to lawmakers in support of both bills (House Bill 2097, House Bill 1608).

Both bills are part of the Pennsylvania Momnibus package to address disparities in maternal health. Additionally, the House Insurance Committee today advanced two HAP-supported bills for consideration. On Monday, the committee advanced:

• House Bill 2138:  This legislation requires private insurance coverage for blood pressure monitors for home use on a per-pregnancy basis.
  • “Some—but not all—insurance plans provide coverage for blood pressure monitors for postpartum home readings,” HAP said in a letter of support. “Requiring insurance coverage of blood pressure monitors on a per-pregnancy basis ensures equity in access to these life-saving devices.”
  • The bill passed out of committee 24–1.
• House Bill 2234:  The legislation implements a program proposed in the governor’s budget that would create a pilot program to help consumers buy health insurance through Pennie.
  • Lawmakers passed an amendment that seeks to ensure the new bill does not diminish the reinsurance program. The bill does not provide funding, which would need to be determined through the annual appropriations process.
  • The bill passed 14–11.
• Next steps:  Both bills head to the full House for consideration.

This is a busy week of activity in Harrisburg, with lawmakers returning tomorrow to consider and discuss workplace violence prevention initiatives and other efforts to support the nursing workforce.

HAP continues to monitor the latest legislative activity in Harrisburg and provide updates to members. For more information, contact Heather Tyler, vice president, state legislative advocacy.