CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Midwives will be getting recognition and licensing in Illinois, thanks to a bill signed into law Tuesday by Governor J.B. Pritzker.
The law Pritzker signed at the Thompson Center will, starting in October of next year, will set standards for the qualifications and training of those who wish to become midwives. That could make home births safer for mothers-to-be.
State Rep. Robyn Gable, one of the chief sponsors, said the law will also allow midwives to establish relationships with hospitals for the first time.
"Homebirths with a certified midwife offers a safe alternative to a traditional hospital setting and I'm glad that we are making this option official."
Barbara Belcore-Walkden, Vice President of the Illinois Council of Certified Professional Midwives said this is an important step.
"We know the way forward to integrating midwife care in Illinois is found when physicians, midwives, and hospitals can freely share information and work together to improve maternity outcomes across the street."
For people who prefer home birth, this makes the choice easier and safer, according to the sponsors.
“After many decades of effort, parents will once again have the ability to give birth at home with the assistance of a certified, professional midwife,” said State Rep. Anna Moeller in a statement.
“We are improving birth in our state by giving parents across Illinois the chance to have a safe and supported labor and delivery experience in a setting in which they are most comfortable. I applaud the many midwives who've worked for years to be able to practice their profession and I appreciate the hard work of the sponsors and advocates."
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