An act relating to certification of community-based perinatal doulas

This bill establishes a voluntary certification process for community-based perinatal doulas in Vermont who serve under-resourced and marginalized populations at low or no cost. It creates a registry managed by the Office of Professional Regulation, requiring applicants to meet age, competency, and background check standards (with $75 application and $120 biennial renewal fees). The certification is optional - doulas can continue practicing without it, but cannot use the title "certified" unless they hold the credential. The system takes effect July 1, 2026, after rulemaking.