The licensing of midwives in Virginia is an important step in providing Virginia families with another safe childbirth option. I would ask that, pending statutory change, Licensed Midwives be allowed to carry controlled substances that are within their scope of practice and could become necessary in the event of an emergency.   I have benefited from the loving, skilled care of midwives during my three pregnancies and am looking forward to the day that midwives are a feasible option for all Virginia families.  Julie Pettler, Executive Director, Birth Matters, Inc.