Bill > H1043

This bill establishes the Doula Workforce Development Support Program within the Department of Commerce to address worsening maternal health challenges in Florida, particularly for minority families, by funding and expanding existing doula training programs and organizations. A doula is defined as a nonmedical birth support professional trained to provide physical and emotional support during childbirth. The program will prioritize support for entities serving high-need regions, such as urban areas with high maternal health disparities, rural areas lacking obstetric providers, and communities affected by hospital closures. Grant funds can be used for training, curriculum development, recruitment, administrative support, business development for doulas, and stipends for newly trained doulas, but not for directly hiring doulas as state employees. The Department of Commerce will administer the program, establish grant criteria, and report annually to the Governor and Legislature on its activities and outcomes, with an appropriation of $7.5 million for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

Health and Social Services

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1043