The bill H.40 aims to establish a licensing framework for freestanding birth centers in Vermont while exempting them from the certificate of need review process. The legislation seeks to enhance access to prenatal, maternity, postpartum, and newborn care services by ensuring that health insurance plans and Medicaid cover services provided at these birth centers. The bill outlines the purposes of the act, which include reducing healthcare costs, protecting women's access to care, and ensuring choice in birthing options. It also emphasizes the importance of birth centers as safe and supportive environments for low-risk pregnancies.

Key provisions of the bill include the creation of a new chapter in the Vermont statutes dedicated to birth center licensing, which mandates that no birth center can operate without a license from the Department of Health. The bill specifies the application process, licensing fees, and minimum standards for operation, including health and safety compliance. Additionally, it requires the Agency of Human Services to seek federal approval for Medicaid coverage of services provided at licensed birth centers, with the goal of implementing these changes by January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 18-9435(a), 18-9435, 8-4099d