Wisconsin Birth Equity Act: New bill to eliminate racial disparities

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- State lawmakers introduce a package of bills aimed at reducing maternal health disparities on Tuesday, Oct. 12.

A group of democrats and advocates introduced the Wisconsin Birth Equity Act. The bill seeks to eliminate racial inequalities by expanding health insurance coverage, increasing access to full spectrum care, and removing financial barriers.

"It is beyond time to make these disparities nonexistent. There's no reason a baby's life span should be decreased by the time they are born based on their zip code, the color of their skin," State Sen. LaTonya Johnson (D-Milwaukee) said.

Another proposal in this package of bills would eliminate the sales tax on breast pumps and supplies.