The state house has rejected a bill that would have allowed home births to be conducted by certified midwives. Despite a good record from the 24 states that allow the practice, it seems it just won’t cut it here.

The first comment on the Argus Leader article about the bill says it best.  In a state where a large percentage of the population lives in the middle of nowhere, it makes sense to have certified midwives who can deliver babies at home. It’s perfectly reasonable to do so, and the hundred or so baby books I’ve read lately all sing the praises of midwives and home birth – just have lots of towels.

One wonders about how the two largest health care systems in the state may have influenced this vote as well…