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Bill

Bill

HB 927

RELATING TO FREESTANDING BIRTHING FACILITIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Ichiyama

Bill HB 927 mandates licensing for freestanding birthing facilities, ensuring they meet health standards to improve safety and care for mothers and newborns.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 927

Summary of Bill HB 927: Relating to Freestanding Birthing Facilities

Purpose and Intent

Bill HB 927 aims to establish regulations and licensing requirements for freestanding birthing facilities. The intent of the bill is to ensure that these facilities meet specific health and safety standards, thereby enhancing the quality of care provided to mothers and newborns during childbirth.

Key Provisions

  • Licensing Requirements: The bill proposes that all freestanding birthing facilities must obtain a license from the Department of Health (DOH). This licensing process will include compliance with established health and safety standards.

  • Regulatory Framework: The bill outlines the criteria that facilities must meet to be licensed, which may include staffing requirements, facility design standards, and emergency preparedness protocols.

  • Oversight and Enforcement: The DOH will be responsible for the oversight of licensed facilities, including conducting inspections and enforcing compliance with the regulations set forth in the bill.

Affected Parties

  • Freestanding Birthing Facilities: The primary entities affected by this legislation are freestanding birthing facilities that provide maternity care outside of traditional hospital settings. These facilities will need to adapt to the new licensing requirements.

  • Expectant Mothers and Newborns: The bill is designed to enhance the safety and quality of care for expectant mothers and their newborns, thereby potentially improving health outcomes during childbirth.

  • Healthcare Providers: Healthcare professionals working in these facilities may be impacted by new staffing and training requirements as stipulated by the bill.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced on January 21, 2025, and passed its first reading on the same day.

  • Referral to Committees: On January 23, 2025, the bill was referred to the following committees for further consideration:

    • Health, Human Services, and Homelessness (HLT)
    • Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA)
    • Consumer Protection and Commerce (CPC)

Conclusion

Bill HB 927 represents a significant step towards regulating freestanding birthing facilities in order to ensure high standards of care for mothers and newborns. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be essential to monitor discussions and amendments that may further shape its provisions and impact.

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

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