Midwives; administration of certain newborn screening tests authorized

HB 129 would amend Alabama law to allow licensed midwives to administer certain newborn screening tests for diseases, which they currently can only order. This change directly affects licensed midwives providing care outside hospitals and the newborns under their care, aligning with the state's Newborn Screening Program. The bill updates Section 34-19-16 to permit midwives to both order and administer these tests (as specified in Section 22-20-3) without requiring referral to another provider. The policy change aims to streamline screening access for families using midwifery services in non-hospital settings, with the law set to take effect October 1, 2026.