In Wisconsin, a significant change is happening for new mothers. For years, the state’s Assembly speaker, Robin Vos, didn’t allow a crucial bill to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage to come to a vote. But recently, he finally relented.
On Thursday, the Assembly voted overwhelmingly—95 to 1—to join a federal program that provides free health insurance to low-income mothers for a full year after giving birth, increasing coverage from just 60 days. Vos himself approved the change.
This legislation had already passed the Senate and is expected to be signed by Governor Tony Evers, a Democrat who has supported this initiative for years. Currently, every state except Arkansas has opted for this extended coverage.
This vote marks a surprising shift for Vos, who has a strong grip on the legislative agenda and often influences campaign funding. His past opposition to the bill was well-documented by ProPublica, outlining how he favored tighter control over welfare spending in Wisconsin.
The turning point came on the same day Vos announced his plans to retire at the end of the year due to health concerns, including a recent heart attack. He expressed gratitude to his leadership team and colleagues during that session.
Representative Patrick Snyder, a Republican and the main advocate for the postpartum bill, had previously stated he would reconsider running for re-election if this bill failed. He emphasized its importance to his constituents. “If we can’t get this thing passed, I just don’t feel I can come back,” Snyder noted. This honesty could have opened an opportunity in a swing district where incumbents usually have an upper hand in elections.
Initially, Vos resisted the idea of extending Medicaid, explaining it would cost the state around $9.4 million, with the federal government contributing an additional $14.1 million. However, with the legislative session winding down, the pressure to act grew.
This urgency led to aggressive tactics from Democrats, who tried to attach the Medicaid extension to other bills to force discussion. This approach created frustration within GOP ranks, but it demonstrated a commitment to reform.
Recently, seven Republican lawmakers joined Snyder in urging Vos to rethink his position, arguing that extended coverage aligns with core Republican values, such as safeguarding the well-being of mothers and infants. These lawmakers represent competitive districts and thanked Vos for his eventual support.
The legislation has garnered support from hospitals, medical groups, and anti-abortion advocates. Research indicates that the year following childbirth can be fraught with health risks for women, including postpartum depression and various medical complications.
Kate Duffy, a Wisconsin mom and activist, has championed this cause on social media. Using her platform, “Motherhood for Good,” she rallied many women to advocate for the change. Duffy credits the bill’s success to “good old-fashioned organizing and relentless persistence.” She emphasized, “We just would not shut up about this.”
This victory highlights not only a shift in policy but also the power of grassroots activism. It’s an exciting step forward for maternal health in Wisconsin.
