The proposed bill updates current statutes by establishing the Maternal Mortality Review Program (MMR Program) to evaluate pregnancy-associated deaths in Arizona, transferring this responsibility from the State Child Fatality Review Team. It modifies the chapter heading from “CHILD FATALITIES” to “CHILD AND MATERNAL DEATHS” and the article heading from “GENERAL PROVISIONS” to “CHILD FATALITIES AND MATERNAL MORTALITY”. The bill also removes the requirement for local child fatality review team chairpersons to review death certificates of women who die within their jurisdiction, thereby streamlining the review process. Additionally, the bill specifies the composition and membership requirements of the MMR Program and the Committee, including appointments by the Director of the Department of Health Services. It defines “maternal fatalities associated with pregnancy” and replaces it with “pregnancy-associated death”. The bill mandates the MMR Program to coordinate case reviews, develop a data collection system, and produce biennial reports, while ensuring confidentiality during proceedings. It emphasizes the use of trauma-informed interview techniques for families affected by these fatalities, enhancing the state's capacity to address maternal mortality alongside child fatalities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-3501, 36-3501.01, 36-3502, 36-3503, 8-807.01, 36-3506
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-3501, 36-3501.01, 36-3502, 36-3503, 8-807.01, 36-3506
Chaptered Version: 36-3501, 36-3501.01, 36-3502, 36-3503, 8-807.01, 36-3506