The bill amends Sections 34-19-12, 34-19-14, and 34-19-16 of the Code of Alabama 1975, enhancing the authority of the State Board of Midwifery and refining midwifery practices in Alabama. Key changes include the establishment of a State Board of Midwifery with seven members appointed by the Governor, requiring specific qualifications such as four members holding a certified professional midwife credential and one being a nurse practitioner. The bill allows the board to accept gifts and grants and mandates that licensed midwives file annual reports on their practice statistics, which must be made publicly available. It also clarifies the board's responsibilities regarding the approval and regulation of midwifery licenses, the investigation of complaints, and the establishment of licensure fees, while emphasizing informed consent through a midwife disclosure form.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for licensed midwives during home births, including obtaining informed consent, documenting emergency care plans, and remaining with clients during labor and postpartum until both mother and newborn are stable. Midwives are also required to instruct clients on administering eye ointment and newborn health screenings. Significant deletions include the removal of the requirement for midwives to collect clinical data for the Midwives Alliance of North America Statistics Project. New provisions allow midwives to order and administer heel lances within 72 hours after birth and conduct urinalysis or blood glucose tests for mothers, while prohibiting them from interpreting tests or providing care to newborns outside specified circumstances. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34-19-12, 34-19-14, 34-19-16
Engrossed: 34-19-12, 34-19-14, 34-19-16