06/08/2026
New Law Supports Mothers, Babies
Working to ensure women and families have access to safe, high-quality care throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery, I recently supported legislation that will modernize state laws governing midwives.
Act 14 of 2026 updates licensure requirements for certified midwives, improves collaboration with physicians and expands prescription authority in certain circumstances. The law also addresses healthcare shortages in rural and underserved communities by expanding the number of trained professionals available to provide maternal care services.
Licensed midwives are an integral part of our healthcare provider workforce, as they care for individuals during pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and the first 28 days of a newborn’s life. They help identify high-risk pregnancies; monitor women and support them during labor and the birthing process; and teach new and expectant mothers how to care for their babies.