Unlicensed midwives would need client consent, with a religious exception

Unlicensed people practicing lay midwifery would obtain signed client consent before providing services and keep the statement for at least four years. These rules would cover people practicing lay midwifery without a license under Pennsylvania's Medical Practice Act. The statement would describe qualifications, disclose the lack of a state midwife license and prescription drug restriction, and include plans for medical problems and necessary transfers. Both the worker and client would sign and date the statement. The consent paperwork rules would not compel a form if the worker or patient belongs to a recognized religious group and follows teachings that lead them to conscientiously oppose modern medical practice and licensing. These provisions would take effect 60 days after enactment.

People without a license under the Medical Practice Act would be barred from claiming to be licensed midwives and administering prescription drugs in lay midwifery. The drug restriction would apply when an unlicensed person practices lay midwifery. The religious exception for consent paperwork would not excuse either prohibition. These prohibitions would take effect 60 days after enactment.

Pennsylvania would not treat unlicensed lay midwives as licensed or regulated by the state, except for the bill's unlawful-conduct rules. Lay midwives include traditional midwives, direct-entry midwives, and similar birth workers who support pregnant people before, during, and after birth without a state midwife license. The exception would cover conduct made unlawful under subsection (d). This provision would take effect 60 days after enactment.