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Republican State Lawmakers Unveil Maternal, Infant Health Proposals

azdhs.gov

A series of proposals from two Republican state senators would boost funding for programs designed to increase care for new mothers and infants.

The measures announced Tuesday by Senators Kate Brophy McGee and Heather Carter include providing dental care to pregnant women on the state’s Medicaid program and adding tests for two potentially fatal disorders to those already included in newborn screenings.

Together, the proposals would cost about $18 million a year.

Senator Carter argues healthier moms and babies could actually save money.

The proposals are backed by the March of Dimes.