Black Maternal Health Caucus Applauds the Introduction of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act

WASHINGTON— Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and Alma Adams (NC-12), co-chairs and co-founders of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, released the following statement on the introduction of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act. The legislation includes policies to incentivize states that have not expanded Medicaid to do so and to require states to extend Medicaid coverage to new mothers for 1-year postpartum.  

“The Black Maternal Health Caucus applauds Speaker Pelosi on the historic unveiling of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act, crucial legislation that will help ensure quality, affordable care for all Americans,” said Black Maternal Health Caucus Co-Chairs Adams and Underwood. “In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated racial disparities in health care, this country is facing a maternal health crisis for Black women. This legislation, championed by Representative Robin Kelly, extends Medicaid coverage for pregnant people from 60 days after delivery to one year, so that moms can receive the care they need and deserve for the full postpartum period. This is the single best thing we can do to save moms’ lives and tackle glaring racial disparities in maternal mortality.”