Bill

Bill > S2994


NJ S2994

NJ S2994
Creates "Midwifery Licensing Act;" modifies regulation of midwifery.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
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 thirteen members 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; recognition of entities accrediting midwifery certification programs and national entities issuing the certifications; 2) establishes continuing education requirements; 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 also updates current law authorizing CMs and CNMs to prescribe certain drugs by, among other items, expanding the services a CM and CNM can provide to include ordering, dispensing and administering prescription drugs and medical devices.

AI Summary

This bill, titled the "Midwifery Licensing Act," establishes a new State Board of Midwifery to regulate the practice of midwifery, replacing the current oversight by the State Board of Medical Examiners. This new 13-member board will be responsible for approving licensure applications for certified midwives (CMs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and certified professional midwives (CPMs), recognizing accrediting bodies for midwifery education, and setting continuing education requirements. The bill also allows individuals currently licensed by the State Board of Medical Examiners as CMs, CNMs, or CPMs to be automatically licensed at their current level by the new board. Furthermore, it expands the authority of CMs and CNMs to order, dispense, and administer prescription drugs and medical devices, updating existing laws that previously limited their prescribing capabilities. The act defines various types of midwives and their services, outlines the composition and duties of the new board, and sets standards for licensure, including education and national certification. It also mandates professional liability insurance for licensed midwives and repeals outdated sections of existing law related to midwifery regulation.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Commerce Committee (on 01/13/2026)

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