Bill > HB537

This bill regulates midwifery in Ohio by establishing comprehensive licensing and practice standards for three types of midwives: certified midwives, licensed midwives, and traditional midwives. The bill creates a new framework for midwifery practice, including detailed requirements for education, certification, scope of practice, patient consent, transfer of care protocols, and reporting of adverse incidents. Key provisions include establishing May 5th as the "Day of the Midwife", creating licensing requirements for certified midwives through the Board of Nursing and licensed midwives through the Department of Commerce, defining the specific activities each type of midwife can perform, mandating informed consent procedures, establishing transfer of care protocols for home births, and requiring reporting of adverse incidents. The bill also creates a Licensed Midwifery Advisory Council to provide recommendations on midwifery regulations and establishes penalties for practicing without proper licensing. The legislation aims to provide clear professional standards and patient protections while recognizing different types of midwifery practice, with most provisions taking effect immediately and some specific licensing requirements becoming effective on January 1, 2028.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb537