Health committee warns HR1 work requirements could jeopardize postpartum coverage; launches survey and webinar series

The commission's health committee announced a focused effort on postpartum care after describing how federal HR1 budget changes will alter Medicaid eligibility and renewals starting Jan. 1, 2027. Kiana Delhune, the health committee chair, said the committee will run a statewide survey of women 13236 months postpartum, produce a webinar series and draft recommendations for a postpartum workplace-accommodations executive order.

"Her coverage now depends on staying employed," Kiana said of mothers who will move off pregnancy-based coverage after the first year and become subject to new work and reporting requirements. The committee noted HR1 will require adults on Apple Health to meet 80 hours of work, training or volunteering per month and to complete renewals every six months, a change that could lead to termination of coverage for some caregivers. Kiana said the committee estimates roughly 30,000 mothers a year reach that eligibility transition and described childcare costs as a central obstacle.

Committee members said they will prioritize outreach and clearer communications for affected families, coordinate with the Department of Health Maternal Health Innovations Task Force, and pursue policy recommendations that help parents remain covered while recovering and returning to work.