MO HB887

Repeals prior midwifery licensing provisions and establishes a new registration system for midwives under the State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

Creates an Advisory Committee for Registered Midwives with five members (four registered midwives and one public member) to develop practice guidelines and protocols by December 31, 2010.

Requires midwife applicants to document practical midwifery experience through apprenticeship, maintain current adult and neonatal CPR certification, and comply with informed consent requirements; renewal requires CPR certification and a renewal fee not to exceed $50.

Mandates registered midwives provide comprehensive informed consent documents to clients including education/qualifications, insurance information, risks/benefits, transfer agreements, and notification to health care facilities of client selection and estimated delivery date.

Prohibits registered midwives from prescribing drugs, performing surgery, medical inductions, cesarean sections, vacuum/forceps deliveries, sonograms, abortions, or providing services for multiple births and high-risk pregnancies; violations are Class A misdemeanors.