SB 1208 Summary

• Creates a new "licensed midwife" license category for registered professional nurses, replacing the previous "certified nurse midwife" specialty certification under the board of nursing.

• Establishes a midwife task force with 8 members (2 licensed midwives, 2 obstetrician-gynecologists, 1 pediatrician, 1 hospital administrator, 2 public members) to develop licensing standards, promulgate rules, issue licenses, and oversee licensed midwife education and practice.

• Requires licensed midwives to hold malpractice insurance ($100,000 minimum), maintain a contractual relationship with an obstetrician-gynecologist or hospital, and transfer clients to hospitals for high-risk pregnancies based on specific medical conditions.

• Establishes licensure requirements including a valid RN license, observation of at least 50 births within 24 months, national certification, and successful completion of an approved examination.

• Creates new Part 208A to regulate freestanding birthing centers as licensed health facilities where licensed midwives provide maternity care, requiring contractual hospital relationships and transfer protocols for high-risk pregnancies.