H.R. 5406: Opportunities to Support Mothers and Deliver Children Act

The Opportunities to Support Mothers and Deliver Children Act is a proposed piece of legislation aimed at enhancing education and training for individuals pursuing careers in the fields of pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum support. Here are the key components of what this bill entails:

Grants for Demonstration Projects

The bill allows the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with the Secretaries of Labor and Education, to award grants to eligible entities. These grants will fund demonstration projects that focus on providing education and training for individuals who wish to develop a career in pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum services.

Eligibility Requirements

The demonstration projects must be conducted in states that recognize the roles of doulas and midwives and that compensate them under private or public health insurance plans. The projects are designed to support individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Individuals must have an income that does not exceed 138 percent of the Federal poverty level.
• Applicants must demonstrate experience or partnerships with organizations knowledgeable in working with low-income populations.

Application Process

To apply for these grants, eligible entities must submit a proposal that includes:

• A description of their program structure and how it intends to support strong career pathways in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
• Evidence that the state recognizes and permits doulas and midwives to practice.
• Plans for working with low-income populations and ensuring effective partnerships.

Project Duration and Evaluation

Each demonstration project funded by the grants must run for a minimum of three years. The Secretary shall also conduct evaluations of the projects using rigorous standards to identify successful strategies for developing and sustaining pathways that provide accessible entry points and professional development opportunities, especially for low-income individuals and entry-level workers.

Funding

The bill proposes an appropriation of $10 million for the fiscal year 2026 to fund these initiatives, drawing from unallocated funds in the U.S. Treasury.

Effective Date

If enacted, the amendments made by this legislation would take effect on October 1, 2025.

Definitions Within the Bill

Several terms are clearly defined in the legislation:

• Eligible Entity: This includes local workforce development boards, state agencies, tribal organizations, educational institutions, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations with relevant experience.
• Doula: A trained individual providing non-medical support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
• Midwife: A professional who meets established international standards for midwifery education.

Relevant Companies

None found