summary
Introduced
04/10/2025
04/10/2025
In Committee
04/10/2025
04/10/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill modifies current law regulating midwives. Specifically, the bill repeals the current law requiring approval for licensure of midwives by the State Board of Medical Examiners and establishes a State Board of Midwifery. Under the bill, a board of 11 members, seven of whom are to be midwives, is created to oversee the licensure of certified midwives (CMs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and certified professional midwives (CPMs). The bill: 1) delineates the responsibilities of the board, which include the approval of licensure applications, and recognition of entities accrediting midwifery certification programs and national entities issuing the certifications; 2) reviews, as deemed appropriate, the continuing education hours completed by licensees based on levels of certification; 3) requires applicants to meet certain standards to qualify for a license; and 4) authorizes the State Board of Midwifery to grant individuals currently licensed as a CM, CNM, or CPM by the State Board of Medical Examiners a license at that same level. Under the bill, the Department of Banking and Insurance is to require medical malpractice insurance providers authorized to provide insurance in New Jersey to cover certified professional midwives. Additionally, health insurance carriers authorized to provide coverage in the State are to cover home births if an individual is approved to have a home birth. The bill stipulates that licensees are to complete continuing education credits in accordance with the respective credentialing body for each level of certification, which is to include at least one hour on implicit and explicit bias, and if a licensee is authorized to prescribe drugs. The board may, in its discretion, waive requirements for continuing education for a licensee if the licensee can demonstrate a hardship, including, but not limited to, a disability, military service or deployment, or other good cause. Moreover, the bill reinstates a licensed midwife as a member of the State Board of Medical Examiners.
AI Summary
This bill creates the Midwifery Licensing Act, establishing a new State Board of Midwifery to regulate and oversee midwifery practice in New Jersey. The board will consist of 11 members, including seven midwives, a physician, a pediatrician, a public member, and an executive branch representative. The bill defines three types of midwives: Certified Midwives (CMs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), and outlines their scope of practice, which includes prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care, as well as gynecological and primary reproductive health services. Applicants for midwifery licensure must meet specific educational and certification requirements, including completing accredited midwifery programs and obtaining certification from recognized national entities. The bill allows midwives to work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, homes, and birthing centers, and permits CNMs and CMs to prescribe medications after completing specific pharmacology training. Licensees must complete continuing education, including training on explicit and implicit bias, and the board has the authority to issue, renew, suspend, or revoke licenses. The legislation aims to modernize midwifery regulation, address high maternal and infant mortality rates, and improve access to midwifery services, particularly for vulnerable communities.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee (on 04/10/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5527 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/A6000/5527_I1.HTM |
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