NJ Lawmakers Working to Expand Maternal Care

NJ lawmakers started a new dialogue with New Jersey families this spring as two pieces of legislation by Tom Kean (R-21), focusing on improved maternal healthcare are quickly moving through the ranks of the state legislature. One bill has already been signed into law.

“This Bill is part of a bigger platform I am working on as there are so many great New Jersey-based charities that help with Maternal and Baby wellness,” said Senator Kean in an interview exclusively with Walk In Sunshine Charity. “I am looking at implementing a tax deduction for New Jersey residents who donate to New Jersey-based charities. This will help offset the tax benefits that were lost due to the SALT cap.”

The purpose of these two bills is two-fold. The first bipartisan bill seeks to expand Medicaid so that it includes group prenatal services, while the other establishes a New Jersey, “Doula Appreciation Week.”

Senator Kean continued with, “New Jersey has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the country. This bill will allow access to group prenatal care for families with Medicaid, and will reduce the disparity of loss between African American families and white families.”

Accompanying Senator Kean is Assemblyman Jon Bramnick who echoed Senator Kean’s sentiments for more affordable prenatal care for women and families.

“This is very important legislation Assemblyman Bramnick told Walk In Sunshine Charity. “Coverage of prenatal services is very important. This care benefits mothers, babies, and our medical community.”

The first “Doula Appreciation Week” will occur during the week of March 22 – March 28, 2020.

For more information, you can read the official press release for the Governor office: https://www.state.nj.us/governor/news/news/562019/approved/20190328b.shtml