Bill > LB701

This bill aims to establish state reimbursement for doula services through the Department of Health and Human Services, recognizing the significant benefits of doulas in improving maternal and infant health outcomes. The bill mandates that by January 1, 2027, the department must reimburse doula providers using state funds at rates to be determined, and potentially submit a state plan amendment to facilitate this coverage. To develop an implementation plan, the bill requires the department to create a diverse work group comprised of stakeholders including doula professionals (30%), representatives from communities of color with poor birth outcomes (30%), rural Nebraska residents (10%), and individuals who have used doula services (10%), as well as medical providers, public health professionals, tribal organization representatives, and community advocates. The bill defines a doula as a trained professional providing emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth, while explicitly stating that doulas cannot perform clinical or medical tasks. The legislation highlights the proven benefits of doula services, such as reduced cesarean rates, fewer medical interventions, shorter labor, and improved infant health indicators, with the work group tasked with establishing appropriate training, certification, and experience requirements for doula providers by October 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59673