Representatives Defeat Midwifery Bill
Air Date:02/08/2011
By Kealey Bultena
Lawmakers failed a bill that registers midwives and allows them to assist with births outside of hospitals.
Republican Representative Hal Wick says the bill doesn’t require enough professional experience for midwives.
"I have to ask if observing 40 births is really enough. Is helping in delivering 5-10 births really enough to make somebody experienced enough that you want them to deliver your son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter?" Wick asks.
Other opponents argue that the bill costs taxpayers money.
Supporters say the state saves money when Medicaid patients choose less expensive home births, and it’s time South Dakota recognizes the option.
The midwifery bill needed two-thirds of the vote, but it did not pass. Republican Representative Roger Hunt announced his intention to reconsider the vote.
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