Bill
Bill > S2729
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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. 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, titled the "Midwifery Licensing Act," establishes a new regulatory framework for midwives by creating a dedicated State Board of Midwifery, replacing the previous oversight by the State Board of Medical Examiners. This new board will consist of 11 members, including seven midwives, two physicians, and two public members, and will be responsible for licensing certified midwives (CMs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and certified professional midwives (CPMs). The bill outlines the board's duties, such as approving licensure applications, recognizing accrediting bodies for midwifery programs, and reviewing continuing education for licensees, which will now include at least one hour on implicit and explicit bias. It also allows for the granting of licenses at the same level to individuals already licensed by the State Board of Medical Examiners. Furthermore, the bill clarifies the scope of practice for different types of midwives, including their ability to prescribe medications under specific conditions, and reinstates a licensed midwife as a member of the State Board of Medical Examiners. The act also repeals existing laws related to midwifery regulation and specifies that certain provisions will not take effect until the new board promulgates necessary rules and regulations.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/S2729 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3000/2729_I1.HTM |
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