Bill > HB1252

This bill establishes the Certified Community-Based Doula Certification Act in Arkansas, creating a comprehensive framework for doula certification, regulation, and compensation. The legislation defines a certified community-based doula as a trained professional who provides non-clinical emotional, physical, and informational support to women before, during, and after pregnancy. To become certified, individuals must be at least 18 years old, maintain certification from a designated doula organization, and pay a $50 application fee. Certifications will be valid for two years and require 10 hours of professional development training for renewal. The Arkansas Department of Health will create and maintain a public registry of certified doulas and has the authority to suspend or revoke certifications for unethical conduct or failure to meet requirements. The bill also specifies that certified doulas can provide services such as childbirth education, healthcare system navigation, advocacy, community resource connections, and continuous emotional and physical support. Importantly, the legislation ensures that doulas will be compensated through the Arkansas Medicaid Program and health benefit plans, potentially improving maternal and infant healthcare outcomes by increasing access to supportive care during pregnancy and childbirth.

Health and Social Services

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1252&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R