MADISON, Wis. (May 6, 2026) – The American Heart Association presented Wisconsin State Representative Pat Snyder (R-Schofield) with a “Friend of Heart” award in recognition of his leadership in passing legislation extending postpartum Medicaid coverage in Wisconsin from 60 days to one full year. The award was presented by volunteers at the American Heart Association’s Wisconsin Advocacy Committee meeting on May 5.
The new law ensures that women enrolled in Medicaid have access to critical health care, including mental health services, for 12 months after pregnancy. Extended coverage takes effect July 1.
“We are sincerely thankful to Rep. Snyder for his leadership on this lifesaving legislation,” American Heart Association Government Relations Director Nicole Hudzinski said. “Extending postpartum Medicaid coverage means women in Wisconsin will no longer have to choose between their health and their family’s finances during one of the most vulnerable periods of their lives. We are grateful for his partnership and commitment to improving the maternal health and safety of Wisconsin moms.”
The American Heart Association has long advocated for extended postpartum coverage as part of its commitment to advancing equitable access to care and improving maternal health outcomes. Pregnancy is often the first time many women see a physician on a regular basis, and these regular visits provide an opportunity to address chronic and pregnancy-related health conditions including diabetes and high blood pressure. Providing continued access to medical care during the first year following pregnancy helps ensure they remain healthy and prepared to give babies the best possible start in life.
“Women in Wisconsin navigating the postpartum period deserve support well beyond the first two months, and I’m proud we were able to get this done in a bipartisan way,” Snyder said. “I’m grateful to the American Heart Association for their partnership and advocacy and am honored to receive this recognition on behalf of the families this law will help.”
Advocates emphasized that extended postpartum coverage is especially important for identifying and managing cardiovascular conditions, which remain a leading cause of maternal death nationwide. Continued care allows providers to monitor recovery, address emerging health concerns and connect new mothers with preventive services during a critical transition period.
“Pregnancy-related complications don’t just end at delivery— serious, life-threatening conditions can emerge weeks or even months after childbirth,” Onalaska resident and Wisconsin Advocacy Committee Chair Anna Rehbein said. “We are grateful for Rep. Snyders leadership on this bill and passion for supporting new moms.”
The “Friend of Heart” award is presented by the American Heart Association to elected officials who champion policies affecting heart health and overall cardiovascular well-being. An award will also be presented to Senator Jesse James, senate champion of the postpartum bill, at a later date.
