In a recent meeting of the Nurse Midwifery Advisory Committee (NMAC) held on September 23, 2025, members gathered to discuss significant updates regarding licensure standards for nurse midwives in California. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as committee members reviewed data on applicant trends and explored potential regulatory changes that could reshape the future of nurse midwifery in the state.

The meeting began with a presentation highlighting the current landscape of nurse midwifery licensure applications. It was revealed that a substantial majority—approximately 97%—of nurse midwifery licensees already possess national certification. This statistic underscores a growing trend among applicants favoring national certification as a standard for licensure, with two-thirds of applicants opting for this route over state-approved programs that do not require such certification.

As discussions progressed, the committee examined the possibility of aligning California's licensure requirements with national accreditation standards. This approach mirrors existing regulations for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), who are required to have national board certification. The committee considered whether to implement similar standards for nurse midwives, which would involve requiring applicants to complete accredited educational programs and obtain national certification.

The conversation turned to the timing and direction of potential regulatory updates. Committee members expressed a desire to draft new regulations that reflect modern standards in nurse midwifery education and practice. Suggestions included maintaining national accreditation as a minimum requirement for educational programs and ensuring that applicants demonstrate completion of these accredited programs along with national certification.

As the meeting drew to a close, members were encouraged to share their thoughts on the proposed changes. The committee's consensus leaned towards moving forward with drafting regulations that could be reviewed in future meetings. This proactive approach aims to ensure that California's nurse midwifery standards remain relevant and aligned with national practices.

The NMAC's discussions signal a pivotal moment for nurse midwifery in California, as the committee seeks to enhance the profession's standards and ensure that future practitioners are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern healthcare. With the groundwork laid for potential regulatory changes, the committee's next steps will be crucial in shaping the future of nurse midwifery in the state.