06/14/2019
Hey friends - we could use your help! Quick phone call, especially to Amy Paulin. Today is super important!! Info below...
🙌🏽 Doulas & Families who have used Doulas :: ACTION NEEDED ASAP! TODAY might be the last day we can help make change!!
Below is the legislation that is coming up for vote asap. Basically it would allow NYS to take the title of “Certified Doula” and make it their own, regardless of who doulas are already certified by. NYS would require fees, exams, oversite, determination (or good moral character) and more for anyone who wants to hold this title. Since we already have a rigorous process through our own certifying organizations, this is not necessary. It will also cause hardship for many doulas and may severely limit new doulas, especially, from actively providing support in NYS.
Here’s what you need to do if you would like to see this halted (from Diann Holt):
“The Bill A00364B has moved Ways and Means so anyone who is a Doula, has used a Doula, has interest in women rights - please make TWO important calls. 1. Call the office of Amy Paulin, the sponsor of the bill, at 518-455-5585 and tell her NO in reference to this Bill. 2. Call the office of Crystal Peoples Stokes and also tell her NO. You can share that this Bill is not good for women, families, or doulas. We are not medical and we are a proven supportive service for pregnant women of all races.
This Bill is causing unnecessary hardships for women who are currently certified, “especially African American Women” who have recently in large numbers started to become Doulas. By adding additional testing and fees to the process they are backing away from completing their certification and moving forward to becoming certified. And, Doulas of all nationalities are voicing great concern over this bill because it is placing unnecessary restraints, additional exams and fees on Doulas who have properly trained by and Certified through National Doula Organizations.
Again, call Amy Paulin 518-455-5585 and Assemblywoman Crystal People Stokes at her Albany Office, 518-455-5005 and ask them not to support this Bill00364B and to vote NO for the sake of women who use Doulas and especially women of color.”
Please call today and help stop this new legislation!