NE LB374

Creates new licensure for "certified professional midwives" (CPMs) who are trained in midwifery without first completing nursing education, allowing them to provide prenatal, labor, delivery, postpartum, and newborn care for up to 6 weeks after birth

Requires licensure applicants to hold CPM certification from the North American Registry of Midwives and complete an accredited midwifery education program or bridge certificate

Establishes a 5-member Board of Licensed Midwives with 3 licensed midwives, 1 physician with direct-entry midwife collaboration experience, and 1 public member who has received midwifery services

Authorizes licensed midwives to obtain and administer specific medications including oxytocin, IV fluids, vitamin K, antibiotics, oxygen, local anesthetics, and epinephrine, but prohibits narcotic drugs, forceps, vacuum extractors, and pregnancy termination

Requires health insurance policies providing maternity benefits to cover services by licensed midwives at any birth location with copayments no greater than other similar benefits