CT SB01078

Establishes state certification for doulas through the Commissioner of Public Health, requiring 24 contact hours of education, attendance at a breastfeeding class, childbirth class, and two births, plus cultural competency and CPR training, with a $175 application fee and $100 renewal fee every two years.

Allows reciprocal certification for doulas already certified in other states, territories, or the District of Columbia if their standards meet or exceed Connecticut's requirements.

Prohibits uncertified individuals from claiming to be Connecticut Certified Doulas, with violations constituting a class D felony.

Requires the Commissioner of Social Services to amend the Medicaid state plan to reimburse state-certified doulas at $900-$1,500 per pregnancy for prenatal visits, physical and emotional support, birth attendance, postpartum visits, and administrative tasks.

Mandates a report by January 15, 2021 on the number of Medicaid beneficiaries served and the impact of doula services on birth outcomes, including reduction in cesarean sections, prematurity, low birth weight, and infant mortality.