The Targeted Midwifery Workforce Development Act seeks to improve maternal and infant health outcomes for Black women and infants in New Jersey by establishing a program within the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. This program will focus on educating individuals from historically marginalized communities about midwifery careers, enhancing cultural congruence in healthcare, and providing financial support for midwifery training. Key incentives will include loan forgiveness for those who commit to working in underserved areas, competitive salaries, and grants for community-led birthing hubs. The act underscores the critical role of certified professional midwives in addressing health disparities and improving maternal care.

To support the initiative, the bill creates a nonlapsing, revolving fund within the General Fund dedicated to educational and training grants for midwives, as well as subsidies for midwives and their employers in marginalized communities. An initial allocation of $12,000,000 from the General Fund will cover administration, staffing, and marketing, while also providing financial assistance for education and training costs, particularly for nontraditional students. The act emphasizes the establishment of mentorship networks and community partnerships to bolster the midwifery workforce, ultimately aiming to reduce the high rates of maternal and infant mortality among Black residents and contribute to the economic prosperity of these communities.