Bill > A01541

This bill establishes a new Cesarean Births Review Board within the state's health department, composed of 14 members including two licensed midwives, two obstetric nurses, two obstetrician/gynecologists, two women's maternal health organization representatives, and six additional members appointed by legislative leaders. The board will conduct a comprehensive review of cesarean births in state hospitals, examining factors such as cesarean rates, vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) practices, timing of unplanned cesarean births, midwifery care frequency, and patient informed consent. The board is required to analyze data on cesarean birth rates across hospitals, considering racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity, and will have the authority to request medical records and other relevant information from state agencies. Within 18 months of convening, the board must produce a final report with recommendations for reducing cesarean birth rates, which will be submitted to the governor and legislative leaders and posted publicly. The bill emphasizes maintaining confidentiality of personal identifying information and focuses on improving maternal healthcare quality. Members will serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1541