Sec. 1. 22 MRSA c. 407-A is enacted to read:

I.

CHAPTER 407-A

FREESTANDING BIRTH CENTERS

§1955.__Definitions

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

1.__Freestanding birth center.__"Freestanding birth center" means a home, homelike facility or other place that is not a hospital where more than 3 low-risk births per calendar year are planned to occur away from the__mother's usual residence following normal, uncomplicated pregnancy.

2.__Low-risk.__"Low-risk" means normal, uncomplicated prenatal course as determined by adequate prenatal care and prospects for a normal, uncomplicated birth as defined by reasonable and generally accepted criteria of maternal and fetal health recognized by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

§1956.__Licensing

The department shall license all freestanding birth centers in order to protect the health and welfare of mothers and infants and ensure safe, quality care for mothers who choose to give birth outside the setting of the acute care hospital.__A freestanding birth center may not operate without a written license from the department.

§1957.__Licensure process

1.__Application for license.__A freestanding birth center shall apply to the department for a license upon terms provided by the department.__The application must contain information the department reasonably requires, which may include affirmative evidence of ability to comply with established standards and rules.

2.__Licensure.__Upon receipt of an application for a license and the license fee, the department shall issue a license if the applicant meets the requirements established by this chapter.