Bill H.79 proposes the establishment of a voluntary certification process for community-based perinatal doulas in Vermont. It introduces a new chapter, Chapter 84, to Title 26 of the Vermont Statutes, which defines key terms related to community-based perinatal doulas, including the roles and responsibilities of the Director of the Office of Professional Regulation. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for certification, which includes age, competency in doula services, and passing background checks. It also specifies the duties of the Director, such as maintaining a registry of certified doulas and administering fees.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to include community-based perinatal doulas under the Office of Professional Regulation, establishing specific fees for certification and renewal. The application fee for certification is set at $75, while the biennial renewal fee is $120. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with provisions for the Director to begin the rulemaking process prior to that date to ensure readiness.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-122, 3-123(j), 3-123, 3-125