New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S05542

Introduced
2/24/25  
Refer
2/24/25  

Caption

Establishes the professional practice of community midwifery; defines as the management in the home, birth center, or community setting, of normal pregnancies, child birth, and postpartum care, including newborn evaluation, resuscitation and referral for infants; sets requirements for license and practice.

Summary

Bill S05542 establishes the professional practice of certified professional midwifery in New York. It outlines the definition of certified professional midwifery, which includes managing normal pregnancies, childbirth, and postpartum care in home, birth center, or community settings. The bill also specifies the requirements for obtaining a professional license, including education, examination, and collaboration with licensed physicians. Additionally, it grants certified professional midwives the authority to prescribe certain medications and perform diagnostic tests within the scope of their practice.

Impact

The bill amends the education and public health laws to formally recognize and regulate the practice of certified professional midwifery. It establishes a licensing framework that requires certified professional midwives to meet specific educational and professional standards, thereby enhancing the quality of care provided in community settings. This legislation may also influence the dynamics between midwives and other healthcare professionals, particularly obstetricians, by formalizing collaborative relationships.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill S05542 appears to be supportive, as it aims to improve maternal and infant health care options in New York. However, there may be concerns from some healthcare professionals regarding the scope of practice and collaborative requirements, indicating a need for ongoing dialogue among stakeholders.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the extent of authority granted to certified professional midwives, particularly regarding their ability to prescribe medications and the nature of their collaborative relationships with physicians. Some healthcare providers may feel that this could lead to overlaps in responsibilities or potential risks in patient care.

Companion Bills

NY A01125

Same As Establishes the professional practice of community midwifery; defines as the management in the home, birth center, or community setting, of normal pregnancies, child birth, and postpartum care, including newborn evaluation, resuscitation and referral for infants; sets requirements for license and practice.

Previously Filed As

NY S00310

Establishes the professional practice of community midwifery; defines as the management in the home, birth center, or community setting, of normal pregnancies, child birth, and postpartum care, including newborn evaluation, resuscitation and referral for infants; sets requirements for license and practice.

NY A01125

Establishes the professional practice of community midwifery; defines as the management in the home, birth center, or community setting, of normal pregnancies, child birth, and postpartum care, including newborn evaluation, resuscitation and referral for infants; sets requirements for license and practice.

NY HB1127

Revise provisions related to birth centers and the practice of certified professional midwives at birth centers.

NY HB257

Midwifery; provide further for the practice of midwifery and powers of the State Midwifery Board

NY A01745

Provides for the licensure of school psychology practitioners; authorizes the use of the title "licensed school psychology practitioner" to licensed or exempt individuals; defines practice of licensed school psychology practitioners; sets forth requirements for professional licensure (including educational attainment, experience, exam and fee); provides for issuance of limited permits under specified circumstances; identifies exempt persons.

NY HB537

Regulate midwifery, birth centers; designate Day of the Midwife

NY A08472

Establishes a temporary practice authorization program for physicians, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice in underserved areas.

NY S08341

Establishes a temporary practice authorization program for physicians, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to practice in underserved areas.

NY S784

Promoting and enhancing the sustainability of birth centers and the midwifery workforce

NY H1117

Promoting and enhancing the sustainability of birth centers and the midwifery workforce

Similar Bills

MS HB79

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regulation of.

MS HB1386

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regulation of.

MS HB142

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regulation of.

MS HB1389

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regualtion of by health department.

MS SB2741

Professional music therapists; provide for licensure by State Department of Health.

MS HB927

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regulation of.

MS SB2033

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regulation of.

HI HB1194

Relating To Midwives.