Introduction of a Midwifery Bill on the Last Normal Day of SC House Session Causes Debate

SC House Representative Shannon Erickson introduced a bill that would put midwives under the Board of Medicine instead of giving them autonomy. While almost all midwifery supporters oppose such and effort, Erickson maintains that the bill introduction was don to support midwifery.

Erickson had presented a very different bill draft to the midwifery organization as a proposal early in the year. Although a few edits were recommended, the draft gave full authority of Licensed Midwifery to a Board make up of professions in the field.

Some supporters of midwifery are now divided as Erickson maintains that she is a supporter and will have the ability to offer amendments after her controversial bill moves forward.

It is worth noting that Representative Erickson does not currently have a seat on the House Medical Boards and that only members within the committee can offer amendments prior to debate on the Chamber floor.

Below is a comparison of the original Midwife Practice Act supported by midwifery organizations and Erickson's bill.