Legislative Update: 4.7.24

Health Care

Bill #: HB 2654

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description: Requires insurance to cover Doula services and childbirth education classes for pregnant women

Status of the Bill: Scheduled for Executive Session in the House on Tuesday, April 9 at 2:00 PM in the Healthcare Reform Committee

Talking points: 

• Doulas can provide emotional and physical support to pregnant women
• Doula care is a proven, cost-effective means of reducing racial disparities in maternal health
• Doula care can improve health outcomes and lead to more satisfying birthing experiences
• All pregnant and postpartum people deserve access to full spectrum doula care 

Link to the summary of the bill: HB 2654

5 for Democracy: Contact committee members and tell them you support this bill HERE. Click on the member’s picture to be taken to their home page. 

Taxes

Bill #: HCS HB 1428

LWVMO SUPPORTS this bill

Short Description: Increases the income eligibility for the residential property credit and the rental rebate for persons age 65 or older or disabled persons, and increases the amount of credit allowed (also known as the Circuit Breaker Tax Credit).

Status of the Bill: Placed on the House Formal Perfection Calendar for Monday, April 8

Talking points: 

• Property tax credit income limits have not been adjusted since 2008
• Senior citizens and disabled persons eligible for the credit have seen their social security income rise - which results in a lower and lower credit 
• With the rise in property taxes and rent, the credit is even more necessary to help them stay in their homes or pay rent
• The Missouri Legislature needs to expand income eligibility, increase the credit amount, and index the value of the credit to keep pace with inflation which is important to support low and moderate income Missouri Residents 

Link to the summary of the bill: HCS HB 1428

5 for Democracy: Contact your Representative and tell them you support this bill. Look up your representative HERE. 

Links to further reading: Improving Missouri's Property Tax Credit Would Help Seniors, Missourians with Disabilities...