NC S325

Establishes licensing and regulation for Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) in North Carolina, effective January 1, 2020, requiring practitioners to obtain national certification from the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM).

Creates the North Carolina Council of Midwives with seven members (four CPMs, one licensed physician, one home birth consumer, one Certified Nurse-Midwife) to oversee licensure, discipline, and rulemaking for midwifery practice.

Requires CPMs to hold NARM certification and, beginning December 31, 2021, graduate from a program accredited by organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or approved by the Council.

CPMs must maintain current CPR and neonatal resuscitation certifications, provide informed consent documentation, develop emergency plans, and comply with newborn screening and birth certificate requirements.

Exempts Certified Nurse-Midwives, physicians, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and emergency childbirth assistance from these requirements; shields health care providers and facilities from liability for injuries caused by licensed midwives' acts or omissions.