Representatives McClain and Miller Continue Efforts to Expand Midwifery Services in Ohio

State Representatives Riordan McClain (R-Upper Sandusky) and Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) continued efforts to expand access to midwifery services through the reintroduction of legislation that creates a new licensure framework for midwives in Ohio.

House Bill 537 was introduced earlier this year as House Bill 224, however, the bill has been reintroduced to include additional measures that work to expand access to midwifery services.

The bill includes the following provisions:

• Recognizing and providing a new, optional licensure framework for midwives;
• Ensuring that traditional (lay) midwives can continue to operate without licensure as they always have as long as they receive informed consent from their clients and carry out their limited scope of work; and
• Creating an advisory committee to oversee and advise on matters regarding midwifery.
• Recognizing May 5th as the "Day of the Midwife."

Additionally, House Bill 537 now requires that hospitals with a maternity unit must agree to a written transfer agreement with any freestanding birthing center that requests it if that center is located within 30 miles of the hospital. This update addresses a need in rural parts of the state in which access to medical care can be scarce, creating critical situations for expecting mothers if there is an emergency and they need urgent medical assistance. This provision was included in the House-introduced version of the state operating budget but was ultimately vetoed.

"The miracle of birth is an awe-inspiring event and isn't simply a procedure to be rushed as long as mom and baby are doing well," said McClain. "Midwives provide a time-tested approach to prenatal care and childbirth that guides the mother through the natural processes to bringing a healthy baby from their womb into their arms."

"I believe this updated legislation will further expand access to safe, quality maternity care, especially for women in rural and underserved areas," said Miller. "Midwives play an essential role in supporting mothers and babies through pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. By strengthening collaboration between midwives, birthing centers, and hospitals, we're ensuring that women across Ohio can receive the compassionate, personalized care they deserve during one of life's most meaningful moments."

The bill comes as a result of issues surrounding access to maternity services, especially in rural areas. Miller and McClain also championed this policy during the previous General Assembly.

House Bill 537 has been referred to the House Children and Human Services Committee.