House Minority Leader: Good things will come from passage of SB 106

(From Rep. Crystal Quade, D-Springfield)

I couldn't be more thrilled to share that SB 106 made it to the Governor's desk Friday. If he signs it, so much good would come to Missouri!

 
First up- an extension of postpartum coverage for Missouri moms. Right now, Medicaid coverage ends after 60 days. This bill moves that to a full year. Healthy moms improves the health of babies! 

Other pieces include a prohibition on health care providers performing pelvic, prostate or anal exams on patients under anesthesia without first receiving explicit, informed consent. It also would direct medical providers serving children to provide education to parents and guardians of kids under age 4 regarding lead hazards and testing, as well as change lead testing requirements.

And what I want to highlight- with a huge thanks to so many from Springfield- an expansion of the "hand up" pilot program we passed a few years ago. 

The new program includes a transitional benefits program for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and makes permanent the Hand Up program for transitional childcare. 

These provisions will allow our parents to do what is best for their families- no longer having to choose between more hours and higher wages or losing all benefits entirely. Folks can move out of poverty without the fear of losing everything.

 
But this post is for the people in these photos. In 2017 we started testifying, lobbying, having town halls- all to better help the folks making decisions understand what these families were up against. This is proof that every conversation matters. Even when you feel like your time in Jefferson City may be futile, keep showing up and minds will be changed.

 
A huge thank you to the bipartisan lawmakers who passed SB 106. And thank you to all the women of Single Momz Rock in SGF. Your bravery over the years will help so many.

 
Now on to the Governor for him to sign!