The bill establishes a new chapter in Vermont law dedicated to the licensing of birth centers, defined as facilities primarily providing midwifery care and low-risk deliveries for stays generally under 24 hours. It outlines the requirements for obtaining a license, including prohibitions against offering certain medical procedures like epidural anesthesia and cesarean deliveries. The Department of Health is tasked with overseeing the licensing process, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with established rules. Additionally, the bill mandates that birth centers develop corrective action plans if found non-compliant and sets forth the process for revocation of licenses.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to include coverage for services rendered at licensed birth centers under health insurance plans and Medicaid. It specifies that birth centers will not be excluded from certain health care provisions and requires the Agency of Human Services to seek federal approval for Medicaid to cover services provided at these centers. The effective dates for various sections of the bill are staggered, with the birth center licensing provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2027, or upon the adoption of relevant rules by the Department of Health.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 8-4099d, 18-9435(a), 18-9435
As Passed By the Senate -- Official: 8-4099d, 18-9435(a), 18-9435
As Passed By the Senate -- Unofficial: 8-4099d, 18-9435(a), 18-9435
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 8-4099d, 18-9435(a), 18-9435
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 8-4099d, 18-9435
As Enacted: 8-4099d, 18-9435