Mansfield Times

State Representatives Riordan McClain and Melanie Miller have put forth new legislation to support and enhance midwifery services in Ohio. The proposed bill seeks to establish a new licensure framework for midwives and aims to broaden access to midwifery services, which could improve care options for women across the state. McClain and Miller, who previously advocated for similar policies, emphasize the importance of midwives and their contributions to maternal care.

The bill outlines several objectives, including the creation of a licensure framework that midwives can opt into, the safeguarding of the practice of lay midwives who obtain informed consent from their clients, the formation of an advisory committee to oversee midwifery practices, and the designation of May 5th as “Day of the Midwife.”

“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 legislation will benefit existing midwives, encourage others to become midwives, and reduce the number of maternity health deserts in Ohio,” said Miller. “If a woman wants a midwife for pregnancy, there are many types she can choose from that will give her different levels of care.”

The representatives pointed to challenges in accessing maternity services, particularly in rural areas, as a motivation for the bill.

Currently, the legislation is pending an official bill number and House committee assignment.