NJ S2662

Certified nurse midwives and physicians practicing obstetrics must provide pregnant patients with written, evidence-based information on all available birthing options during the initial consultation and prior to labor onset.

Required information includes options such as hospital births with Pitocin or epidural, water births (hospital and home), scheduled and emergency C-sections, and health risks associated with each option and medications.

Written materials must be provided in English and at least the seven most common non-English languages spoken by limited-English proficiency individuals in New Jersey, based on U.S. Census data.

Providers must also deliver annual evidence-based education on birthing options in a language the patient understands.

The bill takes effect 180 days after enactment, with the Commissioner of Health responsible for promulgating necessary rules and regulations.