The bill amends the Occupations Code to enhance the training and responsibilities of midwives in Texas, specifically regarding the administration of certain drugs. It requires midwives to provide evidence of training in newborn screening, the administration of specific drugs, and basic life support cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Additionally, it mandates that licensed midwives complete a course in pharmacology that includes training on the administration of drugs commonly used in labor and postpartum care, such as antihemorrhagic drugs and local anesthetics.

Furthermore, the bill expands the list of drugs that midwives are permitted to administer, including prophylactic drugs that meet the standard of care for women and newborns. It also clarifies that administering these drugs does not constitute the practice of medicine. The bill includes a provision that prohibits midwives from administering prescription drugs unless they fall under specific categories, including those described in the new section regarding drug administration. The implementation of these changes is set to take effect on February 1, 2026, with the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation required to adopt necessary rules by December 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 203.256, Occupations Code 203.401 (Occupations Code 203)