NC S798

Establishes the Birth Center Licensure Act requiring all birth centers in North Carolina to obtain a license from the Department of Health and Human Services to legally operate.

Defines a birth center as a facility for performing normal, uncomplicated deliveries for low-risk pregnancies, and prohibits surgical procedures beyond those normally accomplished during uncomplicated birth, abortions, and general or conduction anesthesia.

Sets annual license fee at $100.00 and requires birth centers to maintain accreditation with the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers or another nationally recognized accrediting organization.

Grants the Department authority to inspect licensed birth centers, deny or revoke licenses for substantial non-compliance, and suspend patient admissions if conditions endanger health or safety.

Becomes effective January 1, 2019.