HARRISBURG, PA — Sen. Rosemary Brown’s (R-40) Midwifery Modernization legislation was signed into law on Wednesday, May 6, marking a significant step forward in expanding maternal healthcare access across Pennsylvania.

Senate Bill 507—now Act 14 of 2026—updates licensure requirements for certified midwives, improves collaboration with physicians and expands prescription authority in certain circumstances, including for the treatment of substance use disorders.

“By modernizing outdated laws and supporting greater collaboration among healthcare professionals, we are helping ensure women and families have access to safe, high-quality care throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery,” said Brown.

The law also aims to address healthcare shortages in rural and underserved communities by expanding the number of trained professionals available to provide maternal care services. Additionally, under appropriate agreements, certified midwives can now prescribe certain medications, including those used to treat opioid use disorder –– improving outcomes for both mothers and babies.

“Pennsylvania continues to face challenges related to maternal healthcare access and workforce shortages,” Brown said. “This law is a meaningful investment in families, healthcare access and healthier outcomes for communities across the commonwealth.”

The legislation received broad bipartisan support prior to being signed into law by the governor.