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HB 1386

Midwifery; provide for licensure and regulation of.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Hines

Mississippi bill to establish licensing standards and regulatory oversight for midwife practitioners died in committee without passage in 2025.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1386

Legislative bill overview

HB 1386 establishes a regulatory framework for licensing and oversight of midwives in Mississippi, creating state standards for midwifery practice. The bill died in committee in February 2025 after being referred to the Public Health and Human Services Committee in January, meaning it did not advance further in the legislative session.

Why is this important

Midwifery regulation affects access to maternal healthcare options, particularly in rural areas where midwives may be primary birth attendants. Clear licensure standards can protect public health through defined qualifications while potentially expanding birth services, though it also involves significant questions about scope of practice and healthcare access equity.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Disagreement over what medical interventions licensed midwives can perform, especially regarding high-risk pregnancies and emergency procedures
  • Education and certification requirements: Balancing accessibility for practicing midwives with public safety standards, particularly regarding educational pathways and credential recognition
  • Insurance and liability: Questions about malpractice insurance requirements, reimbursement coverage, and liability protections that affect service affordability and provider participation

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

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