REQUESTING THE AUDITOR TO CONDUCT A SUNRISE ANALYSIS OF LACTATION CONSULTANT LICENSURE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Troy Hashimoto and 1 co-sponsor

SR 10 requests a sunrise analysis to evaluate the need for licensure of lactation consultants in Arkansas, aiming to improve care for breastfeeding mothers and infants.

Reported from HHS (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1085), as amended (SD 1), with recommendation of referral to CPN.

#auditor #lactationconsultants #medicalcare #sunriseanalysis

# Summary of SR 10: Requesting the Auditor to Conduct a Sunrise Analysis of Lactation Consultant Licensure ## Purpose and Intent Senate Resolution 10 (SR 10) aims to request the State Auditor to perform a **sunrise analysis** regarding the licensure of lactation consultants in Arkansas. The intent of this resolution is to assess the necessity and implications of establishing a formal licensure process for lactation consultants, which could enhance the quality of care provided to breastfeeding mothers and their infants. ## Key Provisions - **Sunrise Analysis**: The resolution calls for a comprehensive evaluation by the State Auditor to determine: - The need for licensure of lactation consultants. - The potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing such a licensure. - The impact on public health and safety. - **Stakeholder Engagement**: The analysis will likely involve consultations with relevant stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, lactation consultants, and public health officials. ## Affected Parties - **Lactation Consultants**: If licensure is established, current and future lactation consultants in Arkansas would need to meet specific educational and professional standards to practice legally. - **Healthcare Providers**: Hospitals and clinics that employ lactation consultants may need to adjust their hiring practices and training programs. - **Breastfeeding Mothers**: The resolution aims to improve the quality of support available to mothers, potentially leading to better breastfeeding outcomes. ## Legislative Process and Timeline - **Introduced**: February 3, 2025 - **Committee Actions**: - The resolution was referred to the Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee and subsequently to the Commerce, Insurance, and Economic Development (CPN) Committee. - A public hearing was held on February 26, 2025, where the HHS Committee recommended the resolution be passed with amendments. - **Adoption**: The resolution was read for the third time and adopted on February 5, 2025. - **Next Steps**: Following its adoption, the resolution awaits further action from the CPN Committee. ## Conclusion SR 10 represents a proactive step towards evaluating the potential establishment of licensure for lactation consultants in Arkansas. By conducting a sunrise analysis, the state aims to ensure that any future regulations are based on thorough research and stakeholder input, ultimately benefiting maternal and infant health in the community.