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HB 520

Georgia Licensed Midwife Act; enact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katie Dempsey and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 520 establishes a regulatory framework for midwives in Georgia, enhancing safety, ensuring licensure, and improving maternity care options for expectant parents.

House Withdrawn, Recommitted
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Bill Summary · HB 520

Summary of House Bill 520: Georgia Licensed Midwife Act

Bill Number: HB 520
Introduced: February 19, 2025
Status: House Withdrawn, Recommitted
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 520 aims to establish a regulatory framework for midwifery in Georgia by repealing the existing Chapter 26 related to midwifery practice and replacing it with a new chapter that provides for the licensure and regulation of midwives. The bill seeks to enhance the safety and quality of care provided during childbirth, particularly in out-of-hospital settings, while ensuring that parents have the freedom to choose their childbirth providers.

Key Provisions

  1. Repeal of Existing Law:

    • The bill repeals Chapter 26 of Title 31 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, which previously governed midwifery practices.

  2. Licensure and Regulation:

    • Establishes the Georgia Licensed Midwife Act, which includes:
      • Creation of the Advisory Board for Licensed Midwives to oversee licensure and regulation.
      • Definition of licensure requirements, including education and training standards for midwives.
      • Procedures for the renewal, suspension, and revocation of licenses.

  3. Standards of Practice:

    • Defines the practice of midwifery to include prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care, with specific responsibilities outlined for licensed midwives.
    • Mandates informed consent and written disclosures to clients regarding care options and associated risks.

  4. Collaboration and Consultation:

    • Establishes protocols for collaboration between licensed midwives and other healthcare providers, ensuring comprehensive care for clients.

  5. Prohibited Acts and Penalties:

    • Prohibits the practice of midwifery without a valid license and outlines penalties for violations, including fines.

  6. Birth Certificate Authorization:

    • Authorizes licensed midwives to file birth certificates for newborns.

  7. Effective Date:

    • The provisions of the bill will take effect upon enactment, with conflicting laws being repealed.

Impact

  • Healthcare Providers:

    • The bill will directly affect midwives in Georgia by providing a legal framework for their practice, enhancing their professional standing, and ensuring accountability.

  • Expectant Parents:

    • Parents seeking alternatives to traditional hospital births will benefit from regulated midwifery services, promoting safer childbirth options in community settings.

  • Healthcare System:

    • The regulation of midwifery may help address the shortage of obstetricians in underserved areas, improving access to maternity care.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 19, 2025: Bill introduced and entered the House Hopper.
  • February 20, 2025: First reading in the House.
  • February 21, 2025: Second reading in the House.
  • February 27, 2025: Bill withdrawn and recommitted for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 520, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on midwifery practice and maternal healthcare in Georgia.

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

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