Stein Calls for $319M Medicaid Funding as Black Maternal Health Week Begins
Gov. Josh Stein demands lawmakers close $319M Medicaid gap as Black women face double the maternal mortality risk of white women in North Carolina.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — Governor Josh Stein gathered with advocates at the Executive Mansion on Wednesday to proclaim Black Maternal Health Week and urged the General Assembly to address a $319 million Medicaid funding shortfall when lawmakers return to session next week.
“If we do not fully fund Medicaid soon, health care for millions of North Carolinians could be in jeopardy, and the entire health care system weakens,” Stein said during the April 15 proclamation signing ceremony.
Racial Disparities Persist in Maternal Health
The governor highlighted alarming statistics that demonstrate ongoing health inequities in the state. Black women are twice as likely as white women to die from pregnancy-related complications in North Carolina, regardless of their income or education level.
“While there is no single solution, strengthening Medicaid and our healthcare system is essential,” Stein said. The event brought together lawmakers and advocates who discussed persistent racial disparities in maternal health outcomes affecting not just Black women in North Carolina, but across the country.
Health officials and advocates said many pregnancy-related deaths could be prevented with earlier intervention, better access to care and stronger coordination across the health system.
Community-Based Solutions and Legislative Action
Advocates highlighted the importance of community-based services designed to fill gaps in care. These services include doula support, mental health services, transportation assistance and nutrition support.
Senator Natalie Murdock, a Durham Democrat, acknowledged progress the state has made, including extending postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months. “But we still need a budget to fully fund Medicaid to keep those gains,” Murdock said.
Murdock announced plans to reintroduce the “MOMnibus Act” in the upcoming legislative session. The proposal specifically addresses disparities affecting Black mothers. She has introduced similar bills in the past three years.
Budget Deadline Approaches
The governor’s call for full Medicaid funding comes as the General Assembly prepares to return to Raleigh next week to address the budget gap. The $319 million shortfall threatens healthcare access for millions of North Carolinians, according to state officials.
The timing of Stein’s announcement during Black Maternal Health Week highlights the connection between adequate healthcare funding and addressing racial health disparities. The proclamation signing ceremony took place amid ongoing legislative negotiations over state healthcare spending.
