01 — The Text
What.
- Creates a 6-year federal pilot program letting states experiment with alternative payment models for maternity and postpartum care under Medicaid and CHIP.
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services oversees the demonstration project through fiscal year 2031.
- Allows states to test different ways of paying providers for pregnancy care, labor, delivery, and postpartum services.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Affects low-income pregnant people and new mothers covered by Medicaid and CHIP in participating states.
- Helps states find payment approaches that could improve care quality, reduce costs, or address maternal health disparities.
- Could reshape how maternity providers earn money, potentially incentivizing better outcomes or preventive postpartum care.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill introduced May 2026 and referred to House Energy and Commerce Committee; awaiting committee review and vote.
- Has 72 cosponsors across both parties, suggesting bipartisan support for maternal health innovation.
- Contact your House representative to express support or concerns about testing new maternity care payment models.
Legislative History
Actions.
- May 19, 2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- May 19, 2026 — Introduced in House
- May 19, 2026 — Introduced in House