hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Creates a VA pilot program for doula services for pregnant veterans.
Senators Booker (D-NJ) and Murkowski (R-AK) introduced it.
Introduced in Senate, awaiting committee review.
This bill establishes a 5-year pilot program for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to offer doula services to eligible pregnant veterans. The program aims to improve maternal, mental health, and infant outcomes by integrating doula support into the VA's Whole Health model. Introduced by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), the bill is currently in the initial stage of the legislative process, awaiting consideration by a Senate committee.
Introduced Mar 26, 2026
This bill has been introduced in the Senate and assigned to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. It must pass through this committee, then be voted on and passed by the full Senate. If successful, it would then move to the House of Representatives for their consideration and vote. Only after passing both chambers can it be sent to the President to be signed into law.
If this bill becomes law, eligible pregnant veterans enrolled in the VA system could receive up to ten free doula sessions before, during, and after childbirth. These doulas would be specifically trained on topics like military sexual trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder to provide tailored support. This specialized care is intended to improve overall maternal and mental health for veterans, potentially leading to better health outcomes for both mothers and their babies, and better coordination with the VA after birth.
Supporters Say
The bill addresses critical maternal and mental health needs of the growing population of women veterans.
Critics Say
Some may question the cost, staffing requirements, or the limited scope of a pilot program for such widespread issues.
Supporters emphasize the bill's findings, which show a significant increase in women veterans using VA services, rising obstetric deliveries, and higher risks for certain demographics and mental health challenges among pregnant veterans. They argue that doula support is a crucial and potentially cost-effective way to improve care and address these disparities. While there's often broad support for veteran health initiatives, potential concerns might include the practical challenges of implementing the program across various VA networks or ensuring enough qualified and appropriately trained doulas are available.