BALTIMORE, Md., June 3, 2025 — Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown announced a Final Order against Heather and Ryan Delaney, operators of Maryland State Doulas, LLC, requiring them to pay over $665,000 in penalties and restitution for violating the Maryland Consumer Protection Act. The Crofton-based company misled expectant and new parents by collecting payments for doula services that were often not delivered.
The order mandates a $606,500 civil penalty and at least $60,877.61 in restitution to 29 consumers for unfulfilled services. It also bars the Delaneys from accepting advance payments unless they secure a $250,000 surety bond with the Consumer Protection Division. “Expectant and new parents trusted Maryland State Doulas to provide them with much-needed support services through pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood, but Heather and Ryan Delaney instead pocketed their money and failed to provide the services they promised,” Brown said. “This case sends a clear message that our Office will not tolerate businesses that prey on trusting families during one of life’s most important moments”.
Maryland State Doulas offered services including prenatal support, labor and delivery assistance, postpartum care, overnight help, lactation consulting, sibling care, and placenta encapsulation. The Delaneys collected thousands of dollars in advance payments but frequently failed to provide these services, either partially or entirely. They also made unauthorized credit card charges and issued fake refund receipts, stringing consumers along with false promises of repayment.
Investigators found that the Delaneys misused consumer funds for personal expenses, including Disney trips, luxury shopping, golf outings, and entertainment. Additionally, they falsely advertised certifications and experience for Heather Delaney and several employed doulas, misleading clients about their qualifications. The Office of Administrative Hearings reviewed testimony from 45 former customers, confirming the extent of the deception.
The Consumer Protection Division’s investigation revealed a pattern of deceptive practices. After securing contracts and upfront payments, the Delaneys often became unresponsive, leaving families without support during critical moments like childbirth. In some cases, doulas hired by the company were not paid, further disrupting service delivery. The division’s findings underscore the harm caused to vulnerable consumers who relied on the promised support.
The $665,000 penalty reflects the severity of the violations, with the civil fine aimed at deterring similar misconduct. The restitution covers payments made by 29 consumers for services never rendered, though the total number of affected clients may be higher. Consumers with complaints can contact the Consumer Protection Division’s Health Education and Advocacy Unit at (410) 528-1840.
This case highlights Maryland’s commitment to enforcing consumer protections, particularly for families navigating pregnancy and early parenthood. The Maryland Consumer Protection Act prohibits unfair or deceptive trade practices, including false representations and failure to deliver promised services. The Delaneys’ actions violated these standards, exploiting trust during a sensitive time.
Maryland State Doulas operated from 2017 until October 2023, serving clients in Maryland and other states. The company’s collapse followed mounting complaints, leading to charges filed by the Attorney General’s office in March 2024. The Final Order marks the culmination of a year-long legal process, emphasizing accountability for businesses that mislead consumers.
