Bill > SB274

This bill establishes a comprehensive licensing and regulatory framework for midwives in Hawaii, with a focus on certified midwives (CMs) and certified professional midwives (CPMs). The bill continues the existing midwifery licensing program while addressing several key concerns, including expanding access to midwifery care, recognizing cultural practices, and ensuring public safety. It provides detailed provisions for licensing requirements, scope of practice, and prescriptive authority for midwives, allowing them to provide a wide range of healthcare services including physical examinations, ordering medical tests, and in some cases, prescribing medications. The bill also creates a home birth task force to study and make recommendations about home birth practices, with members representing various stakeholder groups including healthcare professionals, traditional practitioners, and community members. Importantly, the legislation explicitly protects traditional Native Hawaiian healing practices and allows for various birth-related practitioners who do not require licensing, such as doulas, childbirth educators, and traditional birth attendants, while establishing clear guidelines for those who wish to be licensed as professional midwives. The bill aims to balance professional regulation with cultural sensitivity and individual choice in childbirth, recognizing the diverse approaches to maternal healthcare in Hawaii.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=274&year=2026