Senate Bill 44 amends Tennessee law to establish a framework for the certification and regulation of doula services. It adds a new subdivision to Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 71-5-107(a), which recognizes doula services performed by individuals who have received a verification of certification from the Department of Health. The bill defines "doula services" as providing continuous emotional and physical support during labor and birth, as well as intermittent support during the prenatal and postpartum periods.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 63-1-177, which outlines the process for issuing verification of certification for doulas. The Commissioner of Health is tasked with establishing rules based on recommendations from the doula services advisory committee. To obtain certification, individuals must complete a recognized doula training program and demonstrate knowledge in areas such as anatomy related to pregnancy, emotional support strategies, and effective communication with clients and healthcare providers. The act will take effect upon becoming law for rule promulgation purposes, while other provisions will be effective from July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-5-107(a), 71-5-107