The bill amends and reenacts R.S. 22:1059.1 to enhance the structure and function of the Louisiana Doula Registry Board. Key changes include the expansion of the board's composition from a single representative per region to nine individuals serving as doulas from all nine geographic regions of Louisiana. Additionally, the bill introduces new members, such as a woman with lived experience of birth under doula care and a doula with lactation training, both appointed by the medical director of the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative. The board will now also have the authority to establish subcommittees and appoint non-voting members to assist in its operations.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the regulatory authority of the Louisiana Doula Registry Board and the Louisiana Department of Health, emphasizing the need for administrative staff to support the board's activities. The Louisiana Department of Health is tasked with promulgating necessary rules to implement the provisions of the bill and providing logistical support for the registration process of doulas. The bill ensures that while registration is encouraged for health insurance reimbursement, it does not prohibit individuals from practicing as doulas regardless of their registration status.

Statutes affected:
HB514 Original:
HB514 Engrossed:
HB514 Reengrossed:
HB514 Enrolled:
HB514 Act 287: