Bill > HR5406

This bill establishes a grant program to support demonstration projects that help individuals from low-income backgrounds enter careers related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, specifically focusing on training doulas and midwives. The program will provide grants to various eligible entities like workforce development boards, educational institutions, hospitals, and nonprofits to create career pathways for individuals earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Grants will be awarded in states that already recognize and provide insurance coverage for doulas and midwives, with projects lasting at least three years. Applicants must demonstrate partnerships, strategic hiring, and program activities that support career development. The bill defines specific requirements for doulas (requiring 60 hours of training and certification) and midwives (meeting international professional standards), and mandates rigorous evaluation of the demonstration projects to identify successful strategies for workforce development. The program is funded with $10 million for fiscal year 2026 and will take effect on October 1, 2025, with the goal of creating accessible, well-compensated career opportunities in maternal health services for entry-level workers.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5406/all-info