Legislative Advocacy
Advancing Community Midwifery Through Education, Collaboration, and Advocacy
The Midwives Alliance of Pennsylvania (MAP) serves as the unified voice of Pennsylvania's community-based midwives in legislative, regulatory, and public policy discussions. We believe that sound public policy is built upon accurate information, meaningful collaboration, and a clear understanding of the unique role community midwives play in improving maternal and newborn health.
MAP advocates for laws and policies that preserve informed choice, protect access to community-based maternity care, and strengthen the profession of midwifery throughout the Commonwealth.
Our Legislative Priorities
MAP is committed to advancing policies that:
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Protect access to community-based maternity care.
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Preserve informed choice for women and families.
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Support the autonomy and professional integrity of community midwives.
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Promote evidence-informed public policy.
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Foster collaboration among midwives, healthcare providers, legislators, and public agencies.
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Strengthen maternal and newborn health outcomes.
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Remove unnecessary barriers to safe, accessible community birth options.
Our Approach
MAP believes that meaningful advocacy begins with respectful dialogue.
We work collaboratively with legislators, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and stakeholders to provide accurate information regarding community-based midwifery and the families we serve. By sharing research, professional experience, and the voices of Pennsylvania's midwives, we seek to develop thoughtful solutions that improve maternity care while respecting the diversity of community midwifery practice.
Current Legislative Priorities
MAP actively monitors legislation and regulatory proposals affecting community-based midwifery throughout Pennsylvania.
Current advocacy efforts include:
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Monitoring proposed legislation affecting community midwives.
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Meeting with legislators and state agencies.
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Providing testimony and educational resources.
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Supporting policies that improve access to maternity care.
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Protecting the rights of women to make informed maternity care decisions.
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Promoting fair and evidence-informed regulation of community-based midwifery.
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Exploring new legislative efforts towards certification, licensure, and/or regulation for direct-entry midwives.