In a substantive move to strengthen midwifery care in Alabama, the Alabama Midwives Alliance heralds the introduction of House Bill 312 (HB 312), a legislative effort aimed at improving midwifery laws in the state . Championed by Congressman Ben Harrison and with a strong coalition of co-sponsors including Representatives Pettus, Butler, Wharton, Brown, Treadaway, Yarbrough, Wood (D), Ingram, Fincher, Fiddler, Lamb, Stubbs, and Stearns. HB 312 is an important step forward in the field of midwifery.

HB 312, which recently received its first reading, is poised to bring substantial enhancements to the existing midwifery framework enacted in 2017. The Act focuses on both technical and substantive amendments to align the law with current standards and clarify the legislative intent behind midwifery practices.

Key features of the Bill include technical updates to bring it in line with the current regulatory style and substantive clarifications to solidify the original intent of the Midwifery Act 2017. Additionally, HB 312 seeks to provide clear legal language regarding the performance of state-mandated newborn examinations by midwives, a critical step in ensuring the health and safety of newborn babies in Alabama.

Particularly noteworthy about HB 312 is its commitment to protecting the right of Alabama families to choose a certified professional midwife (CPM) for out-of-hospital births, including births in free-standing birth centers. This provision highlights Alabama's dedication to providing families with choice in their birth experience and promoting a diverse and inclusive health care environment.

Additionally, the bill authorizes the Alabama State Midwifery Board to accept donations and grants, an important provision that allows the board to continue its important regulatory functions in a sustainable manner. It enables CPM to provide the highest quality of care based on scientific evidence. Along with best practices.

Nancy Meggison, LM, CPM, RN, Legislative Chair of the Alabama Midwives Alliance, emphasized the importance of this bill, saying, Midwife at the hospital. ” She emphasized the commitment of Alabama certified professional midwives to the health of families and newborns, especially those born outside of a traditional hospital setting.

As HB 312 moves through the legislative process, it represents a pivotal moment for midwifery in Alabama, promising to improve safety, choice, and quality of care for families across the state.