Out-of-Hospital Birth Access & Safety Act filed in 2021

Massachusetts State Representative Kay Khan and Senator Becca Rausch refiled the Out-of-Hospital Birth Access and Safety Act on February 19, 2021. The bill would create a pathway to licensure for Certified Professional Midwives practicing in Massachusetts. Most home births are attended by CPMs, who are eligible for licensure in 36 other states including New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, and Rhode Island.

The bill also ensures that families who use MassHealth/Medicaid can have their CPM care covered. Licensure also expands opportunities for private insurers to reimburse for CPM care.

In the pandemic, there has been a surge in demand for out-of-hospital birthing options that could be provided by Certified Professional Midwives.

As of March 9, 41 legislators have signed on as cosponsors of the legislation.