WeVote
Log In

Bill

RB

Bill

A 5527

Creates Midwifery Licensing Act; modifies regulation of midwifery.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rosy Bagolie and 3 co-sponsors

The Midwifery Licensing Act establishes a new board to regulate midwifery in New Jersey, improving care standards and maternal health, especially in vulnerable communities.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee
#humansvcs
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5527

Summary of Bill A 5527: Midwifery Licensing Act

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: A 5527
- Title: Creates Midwifery Licensing Act; modifies regulation of midwifery.
- Status: Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee
- Introduced: April 10, 2025
- Sponsored by:
- Assemblywoman Shanique Speight (District 29 - Essex and Hudson)
- Assemblywoman Rosaura "Rosy" Bagolie (District 27 - Essex and Passaic)

Purpose and Intent

The Midwifery Licensing Act aims to establish a modern regulatory framework for midwifery practice in New Jersey. The bill recognizes the critical role midwives play in enhancing maternal and infant health, particularly in reducing mortality and morbidity rates in vulnerable communities. It seeks to update regulations that have not been revised since the late 19th century and to create an independent licensing board for midwives, moving away from the current oversight by the State Board of Medical Examiners.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of the State Board of Midwifery:

    • A new board will be created within the Division of Consumer Affairs, consisting of 11 members, including midwives, a public member, and physicians.

  • Licensing Requirements:

    • The board will establish qualifications for midwifery licensure, recognize accrediting entities for midwifery programs, and issue licenses for certified midwives (CM), certified nurse midwives (CNM), and certified professional midwives (CPM).

  • Regulatory Authority:

    • The board will have the authority to refuse, suspend, or revoke licenses, enforce compliance with the act, and maintain records of licensed midwives.

  • Meetings and Governance:

    • The board will meet at least quarterly and will elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson from among its members.

Impact

  • Midwives and Practitioners: The bill will directly affect midwives in New Jersey by providing a clear licensing process and regulatory oversight, ensuring that practitioners meet established standards of care.

  • Public Health: By modernizing midwifery regulations, the act aims to improve access to midwifery services, which could lead to better maternal and infant health outcomes across the state.

  • Vulnerable Communities: The focus on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates particularly addresses the needs of vulnerable populations, potentially leading to significant public health improvements.

Procedural Aspects

  • The board is required to organize within 30 days of member appointments and will begin its regulatory functions after promulgating necessary rules and regulations.
  • The provisions of the act will not take effect until six months after the board has established its regulations.

Related Legislation

  • Companion Bill: S 4487

This summary provides an overview of Bill A 5527, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on midwifery practice and public health in New Jersey.

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

Sign in to ask a question.