Legislation Promoting Doulas and Midwives Benefits Becomes Law

Legislation tasking the NJ Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority with establishing a public awareness campaign to promote the benefits of doula and midwife services was recently signed into law. The prime sponsor of the legislation was Assemblywoman Shanique Speight (D-Essex)

“Doulas and midwives have a long history of providing care and tirelessly advocating for their patients as they experience one of life’s most challenging and most rewarding moments – childbirth,” said Assemblywoman Speight. “Through this bill, we aim to increase public awareness about the benefits of doulas and midwives and the critical role they play in improving health outcomes by supporting individuals and contributing to a more inclusive and compassionate birthing process.”

The new law requires public awareness campaign materials to showcase the health benefits and improved maternal and infant health outcomes that may result from doulas and midwives; and publicize any free or low-cost resources made available by the State for doula and midwife services.