Ensuring access to full spectrum pregnancy care
If enacted, HB 1311 would specifically impact several existing laws under chapters 32A, 118E, 175, 176A, 176B, and 176G of the General Laws. Specifically, it would assure that health insurers and plans are compliant with the new provisions to include licensed certified professional midwives in their coverage. This would broaden the scope of pregnancy care services recognized under Massachusetts law, aiming to alleviate barriers for accessing these services.
House Bill 1311, presented by Representative Lindsay N. Sabadosa and co-sponsored by several legislators, aims to ensure access to full spectrum pregnancy care in Massachusetts. The bill seeks to amend various sections of state law pertaining to health insurance and midwifery regulations. A significant focus of the bill is the inclusion of licensed certified professional midwives alongside certified nurse midwives as recognized providers of pregnancy care. By doing so, the bill enhances the availability and variety of pregnancy-related services accessible to expectant parents in the state.
A notable point of contention surrounding the bill is the removal of language related to abortion and abortion-related care from sections of the health law. Proponents of HB 1311 argue that this approach creates a more inclusive framework for pregnancy care services, ensuring that all pregnant individuals have access to necessary resources without discrimination. However, there are concerns from certain advocacy groups that removing specific terms related to abortion could diminish clarity around reproductive health services and potentially hinder access for individuals seeking specific types of care.