Legislation co-sponsored by State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) intended to improve maternal health outcomes was signed into law on Dec. 14 by the Governor.
House Bill 3401 establishes standards for the qualifications, education, and training of individuals seeking to be certified as a professional midwife. The licensure and certification of midwives will be administered by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
“The signing of this legislation into law is a momentous victory for the midwives of our state,” said Sen. Bryant. “For decades, they have been fighting to have their profession receive the official recognition that it rightfully deserves. This newly created certification process will ensure that they can safely continue their work for any mother who wish to deliver out of a hospital.”
To be licensed as a midwife, the individuals must hold and maintain a valid Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) certification granted by North American Registry of Midwives (NARM).
Additionally, bill requires completion of a postsecondary midwifery education program, which must be accredited by the Midwife Education and Accreditation Council (MEAC). A midwife accredited by NARM who has not completed a MEAC program can still obtain licensure if they have practiced as a CPM for more than three years and obtain other certifications.
HB 3401 will take effect October 1, 2022.