CT SB00395

Establishes a Doula Advisory Council within the Department of Public Health to make recommendations to the Commissioner of Public Health concerning doula certification.

Council consists of nine members: six practicing doulas of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds appointed by legislative leaders, one health care provider working with doulas, one health equity organization representative, the executive director of the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity (serving as chairperson), and the Commissioner of Public Health or designee.

Initial appointments must be made within 30 days of passage, with the first meeting held within 60 days; the council shall meet at least three times annually with members serving without compensation.

Council must provide data on states offering Medicaid reimbursement for doula services, recommend educational and training programs for doula certification, coordinate data collection on doulas, and submit findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by January 1, 2021.

Commissioner of Public Health must establish a doula certification process by June 1, 2021, incorporating recommendations from the advisory council.