Wisconsin Pivots: Arkansas Soon to Stand Alone on Postpartum Care

As of February 19, 2026, the map for maternal healthcare in the U.S. is undergoing a major shift. With the Wisconsin State Assembly moving to pass a 12-month Medicaid expansion for new mothers, the state is finally shedding its status as a holdout—leaving Arkansas as the sole state yet to adopt the full-year extension.

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The Breakdown: What’s Changing?

For years, Wisconsin was locked in a legislative stalemate. Today’s movement marks a critical turning point for the state’s healthcare landscape:

• From 60 Days to 365: Previously, Medicaid coverage for many low-income mothers cut off just two months after birth. This bill extends that safety net to a full year.
• A Rare Bipartisan Win: After years of resistance from Assembly leadership, a compromise was reached, clearing the path for Governor Evers’ signature.
• The “Arkansas Gap”: While Arkansas has implemented some maternal health measures (like doula support), they remain the only state that hasn’t extended the actual duration of postpartum Medicaid coverage.

Why This Matters (The “Why Now”)

The medical community has been vocal about the fact that “the fourth trimester” doesn’t end at two months. Extending coverage helps address:

1. Postpartum Depression: Often peaking several months after delivery.
2. Cardiovascular Issues: A leading cause of late postpartum mortality.
3. Preventability: Roughly 80% of maternal deaths are considered preventable with continuous care.

The Bottom Line

Once Governor Evers signs this into law, Wisconsin joins 48 other states and D.C. in providing a full year of care. For Arkansas, the pressure—both political and medical—is likely to intensify as they become the final outlier in this national trend.