The Senate is poised to consider legislation that would expand coverage for pregnancy, postpartum and newborn care provided by doulas and midwives. [Health News Illinois]

The bill from Sen. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, would task insurers with covering all pregnancy, postpartum and newborn care provided by perinatal doulas or licensed certified professional midwives. That includes home births and home visits.

Coverage would also expand to home visits by board-certified lactation consultants, as well as recommended products like breast pumps and feeding aids.

The bill would allow policy limits to cover up to $8,000 for home visits by a perinatal doula.

Collins said the plan aims to address barriers to maternal care, especially for Black women who face higher maternal mortality rates.

“Black women face some of the highest mortality rates during and after pregnancy, and with this legislation, we will begin to close gaps in coverage and increase safety and care for all newborns and mothers in Illinois,” she said.

The bill unanimously passed the Senate’s executive committee and awaits consideration in the full chamber.

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