Detroit City Wire

Senator Michael Webber has announced the Senate's approval of legislation aimed at broadening prenatal care coverage, including enhanced Medicaid support. This development marks a significant step towards improving healthcare options for expectant mothers.

Webber expressed his satisfaction with the legislative progress, stating, “I’m glad we’re taking up these bills and coming together to do something that will make a real difference for families in communities across the state.” He emphasized the importance of expanding prenatal care access as a means to strengthen family units.

The proposed legislation, encapsulated in Senate Bills 414 and 415, mandates both commercial insurance and Medicaid to provide coverage for group prenatal care. This model facilitates an environment where pregnant women can share experiences and gain insights from each other and healthcare providers.

“By expanding Medicaid coverage to include group prenatal care, we’re removing barriers to a proven resource that improves health outcomes for moms and babies,” Webber explained. These bills are reintroductions from a previous term when they did not advance to become law.

Webber played a pivotal role in prioritizing these bills within the Senate Committee on Health Policy's agenda. His efforts included urging the current Democratic majority to address these proposals, leading to their passage on Tuesday.

“Both bills had bipartisan support during the last term but unfortunately failed to pass under previous House leadership — they should have been signed into law long ago,” Webber remarked. He called for an end to political delays and stressed the need for action that benefits families.

The approved bills will now move forward to the House of Representatives for further consideration.