How Grassroots Advocacy is Shaping the Future of Midwifery Education

Grassroots advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping public policy, and recent efforts to protect federal funding for accredited midwifery education programs are a testament to this power. Sustained federal investment is essential for growing and strengthening the midwifery workforce nationwide.

This week, the House Appropriations Committee took a significant step by passing its Labor, HHS Appropriations Bill for FY 2027. Thanks to the collective advocacy of our community, the bill maintains critical investments in midwifery education. It also features a bipartisan manager’s amendment, reclassifying advanced nursing programs—including Certified Nurse-Midwives—as professional degree programs. This milestone demonstrates ongoing support from lawmakers for expanding the midwifery workforce. Looking ahead, the bill faces a full House vote, likely in late July or early September. The Senate will then take up its own version, and both chambers must reconcile the differences before the final funding bill is approved. Stay tuned for more opportunities to engage, especially as the process moves to the Senate.

More than 140 advocates participated in this campaign—many taking action for the very first time. Their efforts underscore the importance of midwifery education programs, which prepare Certified Nurse-Midwives, Certified Midwives, and Certified Professional Midwives to serve families across the country. Continued funding ensures that more communities have access to the quality, compassionate care that midwives provide.