Gov. Evers proposes $50 million investment to prevent infant and maternal death

 

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Gov. Tony Evers on Monday, March 20, announced a new $50 million proposal to protect the lives of mothers and babies statewide.

The announcement was made at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Community Center in Racine.

The proposal seeks to expand Medicaid postpartum coverage from 60 days to 12 months and would invest more than $5.6 million for maternal and infant mortality prevention. The proposal would also expand Medicaid benefits to cover doula services, including childbirth education and emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. 

When asked why he came to Racine to focus on maternal and infant mortality Gov. Evers answered, "It’s a city that has issues with making sure that the babies and mom are well."

A sentiment felt by community members and city leaders.

"Racine has the highest infant mortality rate in the nation," said Nicole Urquhart, founder of Baby Express.

Evers said the funding is there to help combat what some call an epidemic.

"This money is available for us to do this work and it's federal money. It's tax money from Wisconsinites, let's take advantage of it," Evers said.