Two bills introduced in March of 2022.
In March of 2022, two bills were introduced related to doula services. The first, HB 343, requires the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance to present of plan to the assembly by November 1, 2022 for coverage of doulas services for Medicaid recipients. The second, HB 345, requires the Department of Corrections, subject to funding, to provide midwife and doula services to certain incarcerated women.
Key Takeaways
H.B. 343: The bill requires the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance to create a plan for coverage of doula services. This includes the requirement that the Division create a draft State plan amendment or waiver which would be required for federal Medicaid reimbursement.
Legislative History:
3/16/2022: Introduced
3/16/2022: Assigned to House Health and Human Development Committee
H.B. 345: This bill requires that women in the custody of the Department of Corrections at Level IV or V be provided reasonable accommodations for midwifery or doula services. This specifically applies to pregnant or postpartum women who have given birth in the last six weeks. The Department is required to provide midwifery and doula services subject to funding.
Doula services under the bill include support during labor and childbirth (where feasible), prenatal and postpartum education, breastfeeding assistance and lactation support, parenting education, and support for a woman who will or has become separated from her child.
Legislative History:
3/16/2022: Introduced
3/16/2022: Assigned to House Health and Human Development Committee