HARRISBURG – In recognition of National Midwifery Week, Lackawanna County Sen. Rosemary Brown hosted a Midwifery Advocacy Day along with midwives, advocates, and fellow legislators to raise awareness and celebrate the introduction of legislation aimed at modernizing midwifery practice across PA. Senate Bill 1262 would expand access to high-quality maternity care for PA families by modernizing midwifery laws and improving maternal health outcomes. Brown says midwives provide comprehensive care and fill a great need in the state for women and their families. The bill amends the Medical Practice Act of 1985, updating licensure for certified midwives, modernizing prescription regulations for drug addiction treatment, and improving collaboration between midwives and physicians. To be certified, PA midwives must complete rigorous education and licensing requirements, including a bachelor’s degree in nursing, an accredited midwifery education program, passing a national certification exam, and maintaining licensing through continuing education.