DE HB426

Requires the Department of Corrections to provide reasonable accommodations for midwifery and doula services to pregnant and postpartum women (within 6 weeks of birth) in Level IV or V custody.

Mandates written notice to all eligible pregnant and postpartum women of available midwifery and doula services, and requires the Department to fund these services subject to availability of funds.

Requires pregnant women in DOC custody to meet with a doula or midwife to create a written birth plan including preferred pain management methods, preferred childcare provider for the newborn, and plans for breast milk expression.

Defines doula services as including labor support, prenatal/postpartum education, breastfeeding assistance, parenting education, and support if the woman is separated from her child; defines midwifery services as medical aid provided by licensed midwives during prenatal, intrapartum, or postpartum stages.

Requires the Department to publish an annual report tracking the number of eligible women, requests for services, services provided, reasons services were denied, birth plans created, and instances of doula or midwife attendance at births.