CA AB583

Establishes a 3-year grant program administered by the Department of Health Care Access and Information to provide full-spectrum doula care to pregnant and birthing people with incomes below 600% of federal poverty level who don't qualify for Medi-Cal and incarcerated people.

Eligible grant recipients include community-based doula groups, community-based organizations, birthing centers, local public health departments, and public/district hospitals; grants must be awarded by January 1, 2025.

Requires grant recipients to pay doulas at least the higher of the Medi-Cal reimbursement rate or median rate from existing California pilot projects, and to consider cost of living, market rates, and sustainable living wages in their communities.

Grant funds may cover doula payments, travel expenses, educational materials, family support items (meals, diapers, formula), and administrative costs (capped at 10% of grant funds).

Department must submit a report by January 1, 2028 on fund expenditures and outcomes including client experience, care engagement, doula retention, cost savings, and clinical results; program repeals January 1, 2029.