Senate Passes Kunze's Doula Bill Aimed at Reducing Infant Mortality in Ohio

COLUMBUS— The Senate today passed Senate Bill 328, sponsored by State Senators Stephanie Kunze (R-Hilliard) and Tina Maharath (D-Columbus), which requires the Ohio Department of Medicaid to create a four-year pilot program to cover doula services. "Doulas provide a tremendous amount of emotional, physical and mental support to birthing mothers," said Kunze. "My hope is that through this legislation we will help reduce infant mortality and increase the health and wellness of mothers." The legislation also requires doulas to become certified by the Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board, and establishes the Ohio Doula Advisory Board to provide general advice and recommendations regarding the pilot program and certification of doulas. To learn more about Senate Bill 328 click here.