U.S. Representatives Young Kim, Jared Golden, Jennifer McClellan, and David Valadao have introduced the Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act. This proposed legislation aims to mandate private health insurance companies to cover childbirth and related maternity care costs fully.
Rep. Young Kim stated, “Americans shouldn’t have to choose between starting a family and being strapped in debt.” She emphasized the need for affordable healthcare to support families without imposing significant financial burdens.
Jared Golden remarked on the routine nature of pregnancy and childbirth, advocating for insurance coverage that reflects this normalcy: “It shouldn’t cost thousands of dollars to give birth at the hospital,” he said.
David Valadao highlighted the financial challenges faced by families with private insurance: “Building a family already comes with so much uncertainty,” he noted, stressing the importance of designating maternal care as an Essential Health Benefit.
Jennifer McClellan shared her personal experience with medical bills during her daughter’s birth by emergency C-section. She supports the act for providing peace of mind regarding access to necessary care without financial stress.
Statistics show that while average out-of-pocket costs for childbirth are around $3,000 for mothers with large-group employer insurance, some face significantly higher bills. Reports indicate that 17 percent encounter bills over $5,000, and 1 percent exceed $10,000. Additionally, 17.5 percent of women with private insurance reported difficulties paying medical bills.
The Senate companion bill is supported by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, Tim Kaine, Josh Hawley, and Kirsten Gillibrand. The act has received endorsements from numerous health care and patient advocacy groups including the American Medical Association and March of Dimes.
