Bill > HB1194

This bill makes permanent the regulatory laws governing midwives in Hawaii, establishing a comprehensive framework for the practice of midwifery. It clarifies the scope of midwifery practice for two types of midwives: certified midwives (who have graduate-level education and can prescribe certain medications) and certified professional midwives (with different educational pathways). The bill establishes detailed licensure requirements, including mandatory continuing education, certification in CPR and neonatal resuscitation, and peer review processes. Certified midwives will be granted prescriptive authority for specific medications and be allowed to prescribe certain drugs, while certified professional midwives have more limited medication administration rights. The legislation requires midwives to maintain professional standards, including assessing client risks, maintaining accurate records, and having transfer protocols for medical emergencies. Importantly, the bill explicitly affirms that the practice of midwifery does not include Native Hawaiian traditional and customary practices, ensuring cultural practices remain protected. The bill also adds midwives to the list of recognized health care providers and clarifies grounds for license renewal, suspension, or revocation, with the ultimate goal of protecting public health and safety by establishing clear professional standards for midwifery practice in Hawaii.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1194&year=2025