Senate approves Medicaid coverage for doula services

Senator Escamilla presented Senate Bill 85, a measure to add Medicaid coverage for doula services, saying doulas provide “physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after labor and birth.” He told the Senate the policy would improve maternal and infant outcomes and reduce Medicaid costs by preventing some premature births and cesarean deliveries.

The bill’s sponsor, Senator Escamilla, cited research and savings estimates, saying that in recent experience across 12 states the doula benefit was associated with savings of about $58,400,000. He described the proposal as a way to bring doula services into Medicaid in a “more systemic way” for Utah beneficiaries.

Lawmakers did not engage in extended debate and the sponsor waived summation and called the question. The roll call showed the bill passed the Senate and was sent to the House for consideration; the clerk recorded 27 yay votes and no nay votes with two senators absent on the final tally reported on the floor.

Supporters framed the bill as both a health intervention and a cost-saving measure, while opponents did not press detailed objections during floor debate. The next step for SB 85 is consideration by the Utah House of Representatives.

The Senate took the final vote and ordered the bill transmitted to the House.