State Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren) sitting on a committee meeting in the Anderson House Office Building on May 14, 2024.
LANSING, Mich., Oct. 17, 2024 — State Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren) testified yesterday before the Senate Housing and Human Services Committee in support of House Bill 5826, a bipartisan bill she sponsored aimed at expanding maternal care across Michigan through the establishment of a doula scholarship program. The bill, which passed the House in June, would provide up to $3,000 in scholarships to individuals pursuing doula training, empowering them to offer critical support and advocacy for mothers during the labor and delivery process. After the hearing, Xiong issued the following statement:
“Doulas, as non-medical professionals, provide essential support that significantly improves health outcomes for mothers and babies. By establishing this scholarship program, we can empower individuals to pursue meaningful careers, while ensuring that expectant mothers across our state, especially in underserved communities, have access to safe birthing experiences. As a mother and policymaker, I understand the complexities and challenges of labor and delivery. My own experiences make me even more committed to ensuring that every mother has access to the care and support she deserves. This bill is an investment in the health and future of Michigan families, providing parents with the resources they need to grow a family, and creating a healthier, more equitable Michigan for generations to come.”
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