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SB 319

"Dorothy Mae Smith Wright Act"; enact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tonya Anderson and 10 co-sponsors

SB 319 formalizes doulas' roles in health care, mandates insurance coverage for their services, and promotes collaboration with providers to enhance maternal health support.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · SB 319

Summary of SB 319: Generally Revise Health Care Laws Related to Doulas

Bill Number: SB 319
Introduced: November 22, 2024
Status: Chapter Number Assigned (as of May 16, 2025)
Primary Sponsor: Cora Neumann
Related Bills: LC 1837 (replaces)

Purpose and Intent

SB 319 aims to revise existing health care laws concerning doulas, professionals who provide support to individuals during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The bill seeks to formalize the role of doulas within the health care system, ensuring that their services are recognized and integrated into maternal health care practices.

Key Provisions

  • Regulation of Doulas: The bill establishes a framework for the certification and regulation of doulas, setting standards for training and practice.
  • Insurance Coverage: SB 319 mandates that certain health insurance plans cover doula services, making them more accessible to families.
  • Collaboration with Health Care Providers: The legislation encourages collaboration between doulas and other health care professionals, promoting a team-based approach to maternal care.
  • Public Awareness Campaign: The bill includes provisions for a public awareness campaign to educate the community about the benefits of doula support during childbirth.

Impact

  • Doulas: The bill directly affects doulas by providing a clear regulatory framework, which may enhance their professional recognition and credibility.
  • Expecting Families: Families seeking support during pregnancy and childbirth will benefit from increased access to doula services, potentially improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
  • Health Care Providers: Hospitals and health care providers will need to adapt to the new regulations and collaborate with doulas, which may require adjustments in practice and policy.

Procedural Timeline

  • May 1, 2025: The bill was sent to enrolling.
  • May 6, 2025: Signed by the Speaker of the House, President of the Senate, and Governor.
  • May 16, 2025: Chapter Number Assigned, marking the bill's finalization.

Conclusion

SB 319 represents a significant step toward integrating doulas into the health care system, enhancing the support available to families during pregnancy and childbirth. By establishing regulations and promoting insurance coverage for doula services, the bill aims to improve maternal health outcomes and foster a collaborative environment among health care providers.

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

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