Bill > S1442

This bill aims to promote the health and well-being of mothers and infants by establishing a licensure process for lactation consultants in Massachusetts. Specifically, the bill: 1. Adds lactation consultants to the Board of Allied Health Professions and defines the scope of "lactation care and services" that they provide. 2. Requires lactation consultants to be certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and hold a valid license issued by the state. 3. Allows other healthcare professionals, students, and government employees to provide lactation support services, but restricts the use of the titles "licensed lactation consultant" and "lactation consultant" to those who are properly licensed or certified. 4. Grants a 3-year grace period for existing International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) to continue practicing without a state license. The overall intent is to professionalise and regulate the provision of lactation care and services in Massachusetts, with the goal of improving maternal and infant health outcomes.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S1442