26 V.S.A. § 4171: Definitions [Effective July 1, 2026]

As used in this chapter:

(1) “Certified community-based perinatal doula” means a community-based perinatal doula who holds a certificate issued pursuant to this chapter.

(2) “Community-based doula” means an individual who provides doula services to under-resourced and marginalized populations at low or no cost, often through a community-based agency.

(3) “Community-based perinatal doula” means a community-based doula who provides doula services to individuals during the perinatal period.

(4) “Director” means the Director of the Office of Professional Regulation.

(5) “Doula” means a nonclinical, nonmedical individual who provides direct emotional and physical support and educational and informational services to birthing individuals before, during, and after labor and childbirth.

(6) “Perinatal” means the period of time encompassing pregnancy, childbirth, and up to one year postpartum.