The Labor Committee’s session today was an example of the power of public testimony. The Committee members were particularly impressed by the rapid-fire testimony of two high school debaters who seemed to have elusive data. For example:
- 95% of postpartum mothers have financial need
- 1 in 8 mothers suffers from postpartum depression
- 69% of postpartum deaths could be prevented
Others were also persuasive and added some statistics about the need in Wyoming. Others emphasized that the mother’s health affects the family, especially the babies. We heard personal testimony about how this looks and feels. We heard again that NONE of the rumored 29 WY agencies might replace or even duplicate Medicaid extension. Finally, this bill would create an extension for women already receiving Medicaid and NOT add more women to the Medicaid roles. See the video>>>
Senate Labor Comm passed HB004 & answered many questions