GA HB520

Creates a new licensure system for midwives in Georgia under the "Georgia Licensed Midwife Act," establishing a 6-member Advisory Board for Licensed Midwives appointed by the Governor to oversee regulation

Requires licensure applicants to hold certification from recognized organizations (such as North American Registry of Midwives or American Midwifery Certification Board), complete criminal background checks, maintain CPR/neonatal resuscitation certification, and complete a pharmacology course

Authorizes licensed midwives to provide care during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum in out-of-hospital settings; order lab tests and ultrasounds; administer specific medications including Pitocin, IV fluids, and antibiotics; and file birth certificates

Limits practice to spontaneous births between 37-43 weeks gestation and prohibits surgical deliveries, epidural/spinal anesthetics, narcotic analgesics, and use of forceps or vacuum extractors

Mandates health insurance policies, HMOs, and Medicaid that cover maternity care must reimburse licensed midwives at the same rate as other maternity care providers