Iowa has secured federal approval to extend postpartum health coverage for new mothers from 60 days to 12 months, targeting families earning up to 215% of the federal poverty level, or about $67,000 annually for a family of four. Previously, the program covered families earning up to 375%, sparking criticism that the lowered threshold could leave some families without support.
State officials highlighted the importance of the policy in providing critical healthcare for mothers and their children. However, implementation, originally planned for January, has been delayed due to federal processing, with a revised timeline pending further guidance.
