SPRINGFIELD – Seeking to improve maternal health and ensure new families have the support they need to thrive, State Senator Graciela Guzmán hosted a rally promoting her legislation to bring economic support to new mothers.

“NEST recognizes that if we want healthier babies, stronger families, and a more sustainable Medicaid system, we have to support mothers when it matters most,” said Guzman (D-Chicago). “NEST isn’t just the right thing to do for our families, it saves the state Medicaid dollars.”

The Newborn Equity Support Transfer – also known as NEST – gives new mothers on Medicaid $1,500 payment during their third trimester of pregnancy, followed by $500 a month for the first six months of their baby’s life.

Birth complications are incredibly expensive. A full-term birth costs Medicaid a fraction of what a preterm or low-birthweight birth costs. This can translate to $6,000 for a full-term birth versus up to $100,000 when there are complications.

In Flint, Michigan, a similar program allowed mothers to use funding on things like prenatal care, doulas, extra childcare, diapers, keeping the lights on, and putting food on the table.

“Too many families are forced to navigate pregnancy and early parenthood under crushing financial stress. The result is devastating outcomes for moms and babies,” said Sarah Saheb, director of Ecnomoic Secrui

“The Flint program led to fewer preterm births, fewer NICU admissions, and healthier outcomes for both moms and babies,” said Guzmán. “Those reductions translate into safer, more secure homes and less stress on our hospitals. I’m proud to be leading this effort, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to make NEST a reality in Illinois.”

Senate Bill 3756 is awaiting action in the Senate Appropriations – Health and Human Services Committee.

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