MS HB207

Establishes requirements for persons to practice midwifery in Mississippi effective July 1, 2015, including completion of application, proof of age 21 or older, and certification as a certified professional midwife (CPM) through NARM or successor organization.

Allows three pathways to meet professional competency: graduation from a MEAC-accredited educational program, completion of a NARM-approved apprenticeship program, or meeting experienced midwife requirements (minimum 5 years in practice, 75 births in last 10 years with 10 in last 2 years, 300 prenatal visits, 50 newborn exams, and 75 postpartum visits).

Exempts women serving as midwives to their immediate family members (daughters, daughters-in-law, mother, mother-in-law, sisters, and sisters-in-law) or members of their personal church from meeting the practice requirements.

Requires the State Department of Health to maintain a current public register of midwives practicing in the state and mandates all midwives submit reports of births, outcomes, and transports to the department.