Congratulations to the Leagues of Women Voters of the Cape Cod Area (LWVCCA) and Massachusetts (LWVMA) for their excellent virtual forum, “The Massachusetts Maternal Health “Momnibus” Law: What It means for the Cape and Commonwealth” on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 6:30 PM to explore the background, emerging initiatives, policies, and services contained in the recently enacted Act promoting midwifery care and out-of-hospital birth options. More than 70 people watched the presentation

This comprehensive legislation will overhaul maternal health practices in Massachusetts and expand coverage for midwifery, birth centers, doulas and treatment for postpartum depression, among several other initiatives to save lives and to advance racial and economic maternal healthcare justice.

Thhanks to Senator Julian Cyr, Cape and Islands District, senate Chair of the Committee on Public Health, shared opening comments

And thanks to our six speakers—a state senator, physicians, midwifery providers, and a birth doula—for their insights into the features and the impact of the new law from their unique perspectives:

● Senator Elizabeth “Liz” Miranda, 2nd Suffolk District, Massachusetts Senate
● Dr. Hafsatou Diop, MD, MPH, MA Dept of Public Health—Assistant Commissioner for Health Equity
● Dr. William Agel, MD, Cape Cod Healthcare—Chief Medical Officer, Obstetrician/Gynecologist
● Erinn Bray, By Your Side Doula—Birth and Postpartum Doula
● Katherine Rushfirth, CNM, FACNM, Boston Neighborhood Health Center— Policy Director and Certified Nurse Midwife
● Jody Schwartz Belson, CNM, Outer Cape Health Services—Program Medical Director for Women's Health Services, Certified Nurse Midwife

Follow This Link to see more information about our speakers: 

And see the recording: HERE.