Bill > S1599

This bill, called the "Midwives for Maximizing Optimal Maternity Services Act" or "Midwives for MOMS Act" of 2025, aims to address maternity care shortages by expanding educational opportunities for midwives through two primary grant programs. The first program, administered through the Public Health Service Act, will provide $15 million in funding from 2025-2029 to support midwifery schools and programs, with 50% of funds going to direct student support, 25% for establishing or expanding midwifery schools, and 25% for securing preceptors (clinical training supervisors). The bill prioritizes grants for institutions that focus on training students to practice in healthcare shortage areas and aim to increase racial and ethnic minority representation in midwifery education. A separate program for nurse-midwives will provide $20 million during the same period, with similar funding allocations and priorities, specifically targeting schools of nursing. The bill also modifies existing definitions to explicitly include midwifery schools and programs in healthcare education terminology. Notably, the bill excludes midwifery programs within nursing schools from receiving assistance under the first grant program, creating a distinct pathway for midwifery education support.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1599/all-info