HR 211 - National Midwifery Week Resolution
Overview
Bill Number: HR 211
Title: A Resolution recognizing the week of October 5 through 11, 2025, as "National Midwifery Week" in Pennsylvania.
Status: Reported as committed
Introduced: January 06, 2025
Purpose and Intent
The purpose of this resolution is to officially recognize and celebrate the important role of midwives in Pennsylvania's healthcare system. The resolution aims to raise awareness of the midwifery profession, highlight its contributions to maternal and child health, and honor the dedicated work of midwives across the state.
Key Provisions
- Designates the week of October 5 through 11, 2025 as "National Midwifery Week" in Pennsylvania.
- Encourages all Pennsylvanians to observe the week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities to recognize midwives and the care they provide.
- Calls on the Governor of Pennsylvania to issue a proclamation to commemorate National Midwifery Week.
- Directs the Pennsylvania Department of Health to work with midwifery organizations to promote public awareness and education about the midwifery profession.
Affected Parties and Impacts
This resolution directly affects midwives practicing in Pennsylvania, as it formally recognizes their important role in the state's healthcare system. It also impacts Pennsylvania residents more broadly by raising public awareness and appreciation for midwifery services.
The designation of National Midwifery Week is expected to:
- Increase visibility and understanding of the midwifery profession
- Highlight the benefits of midwife-led care for mothers and infants
- Foster greater collaboration between midwives, healthcare providers, and policymakers
- Potentially lead to expanded access to midwifery services across the state
Procedural and Timeline Considerations
HR 211 was introduced in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on January 6, 2025 and has been reported as committed, meaning it has been referred to a committee for further consideration and potential amendment.
The next steps in the legislative process include:
- Committee review and potential revisions to the resolution
- Scheduling of a floor vote in the House of Representatives
- If passed by the House, referral to the Pennsylvania Senate for consideration
- Potential Senate amendments and final passage
- Delivery to the Governor for signature and official proclamation of National Midwifery Week
The resolution is intended to be implemented in time for the observance of National Midwifery Week in October 2025.