Permits doulas to be present in the operating room while a cesarean section is being performed

This law requires hospitals and other maternal healthcare facilities in New York to allow doulas to be in the operating room during a cesarean section if the birthing parent does not have another support person present. The bill mandates that facilities clearly inform patients about this right through posted signs and informational pamphlets available in English and the six most common non-English languages spoken by residents with limited English proficiency. By adding a new section to the state public health law, the measure ensures that doula presence is guaranteed for the duration of the surgery when no other family member or friend is available to provide support.