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H 5021

An Act to expand the doula workforce

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Marjorie Decker and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill to expand doula workforce through policy and funding mechanisms to improve maternal health access, particularly for underserved communities.

Reporting date extended to Thursday, December 31, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 5021

Legislative bill overview

H 5021 seeks to expand Massachusetts's doula workforce by creating supportive policies and likely funding mechanisms to increase the number of trained doulas available to pregnant people and new parents. The bill appears to build on or revise previous legislation (H1333) and has progressed through the Financial Services Committee with favorable recommendation to the Health Care Financing Committee.

Why is this important

Doulas provide non-medical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum periods, and research suggests their presence can improve maternal health outcomes, reduce unnecessary interventions, and increase birth satisfaction—particularly for marginalized communities. Expanding access to doulas could address maternal health disparities in Massachusetts while creating new employment opportunities in healthcare-adjacent fields.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding sources: Expanding the doula workforce requires resources; questions may arise about whether public funds should subsidize doula services or if this should remain private-pay
  • Regulatory framework: Determining licensure, training standards, and oversight requirements could face resistance from existing medical establishments or doula organizations with differing views on professionalization
  • Insurance coverage and reimbursement: Whether health insurers will be required to cover doula services remains unclear and could impact adoption rates and equity of access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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