“免费生育”来了，美国人依然不想生

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the declining birth rate in the United States, which has reached a record low in 2023, and the government's response through the proposed "Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act" aimed at alleviating the financial burden of childbirth [3][4][5]. Summary by Sections Declining Birth Rate - The total fertility rate in the U.S. has dropped to its lowest in a century, with a slight increase expected in 2024 but still near record lows [3][4]. - Public sentiment reflects skepticism towards government initiatives, with many believing that improving quality of life is essential for reversing the population decline [4]. Proposed Legislation - The "Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act" mandates private insurance companies to cover all childbirth-related medical expenses, which average $18,865, leaving families with an out-of-pocket cost of $2,854 even with insurance [5][9]. - The act is projected to increase insurance premiums by approximately $30 annually for the 178 million people covered by private insurance in the U.S. [9]. Challenges in Maternal Healthcare - The article highlights the inadequacies in prenatal care and the short hospital stays post-delivery, which complicate postpartum recovery and childcare [10][11]. - The average hospital stay for vaginal births is only 1-2 days, and for cesarean sections, it is 2-4 days, leading to challenges in early parenting [11]. Broader Issues in Parenting - The U.S. lacks federally mandated paid maternity leave, with many women unable to take the full 12 weeks of unpaid leave provided by the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) [15]. - High childcare costs, averaging $25,000 annually, force many parents to reconsider their employment [16][18]. Societal and Economic Implications - The article discusses the long-term impact of childbirth on women's careers, with many facing job insecurity and discrimination upon returning to work [19]. - The financial burden of education and childcare continues to weigh heavily on families, influencing their decisions about having children [19][20]. Legislative Context - The proposed legislation is seen as a response to the recent overturning of federal abortion rights, with advocates arguing that addressing economic challenges is crucial for reducing abortion rates [20][21]. - The act has garnered bipartisan support, reflecting a growing consensus on the need to reduce the financial barriers to childbirth [22]. Limitations of the Proposed Act - Critics argue that the act only addresses the costs of childbirth and does not tackle the underlying structural issues contributing to the low birth rate [23]. - The article cites international examples, such as Norway, where even comprehensive support systems have not prevented declines in fertility rates [23]. Additional Government Initiatives - The article mentions the "Trump Accounts" plan, which aims to provide financial support for children born between 2025 and 2029, but faces skepticism regarding its effectiveness [24][25]. - The plan's strict withdrawal limitations and lack of substantial benefits for low-income families raise concerns about its practicality [25][26].