About Us
VFAM is a consumer-led grassroots organization. Our support for midwives is based on the principles of autonomy and freedom of choice. We couldn’t exist without the involvement of our neighbors, which is why we are so glad you’re here.
History
The Fight for Virginia Midwives
1977: Virginia Limits Midwifery
Virginia law goes into effect that limits new licensure to nurse-midwives only, forcing the eventual extinction of legal non-nurse midwives in the state and severely limiting out-of-hospital birth as an option for families.
1977-2004: Virginians Push Back
Many midwives and consumers fight to obtain state licensure for direct-entry midwives.
2005: Virginia Licenses Direct-Entry Midwives
HB2038 and SB1259 pass the General Assembly and are signed into law, granting licensure and independent practice to direct-entry midwives in Virginia.
2021: Virginia Licenses CMs and grants full autonomy to CNMs
Governor Northam signs HB1953/SB1320 making Virginia the first southern state to license Certified Midwives. He also signs HB1817 granting full-practice authority for CNMs with >1,000 practice hours.
2022: VFAM is born
In response to bills such as HB1953, which threatened to reopen the law licensing midwives, Virginia citizens recognize the need for vigilance as we seek to preserve midwifery autonomy and expand midwifery options, and we join together as Virginia Families for Access to Midwifery.
Team
Board Members and Advisors
Briana Watts
Executive Director
Mance Miller
Board Member
Gwen Paulson
Board Member
Meredith Nelson
Board Member
Join our Community!
VFAM thrives on the support of engaged community members. Together, we’ll let Virginia know we care about midwives, and about better birth.