The bill establishes the Maternity Care Pilot Program, which will be administered by the State Department of Health. This program aims to support the addition of labor and delivery services at a selected hospital through a one-time grant of $5 million. To qualify for the grant, hospitals must meet specific criteria, including being licensed, designated as a critical access hospital, organized as a charitable entity under IRS regulations, and having been profitable for the two years prior to application. Additionally, the hospital must not currently offer labor and delivery services, have available space for a labor and delivery unit, and employ at least one Certified Nurse-Midwife.

The bill outlines that grant funds can only be used for specific purposes, including staffing costs for an obstetrics team, acquisition of essential medical equipment and supplies, and educational classes related to maternal and infant health. Importantly, the funds cannot be used for construction or renovation costs. The State Commissioner of Health is authorized to create necessary rules for the implementation of the program. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate enactment upon passage and approval.