This bill updates the procedures for reporting fetal death records and the disposition of fetal remains in New Hampshire. It repeals and reenacts RSA 5-C:74, which requires a fetal death worksheet to be prepared and a report filed within five days of the occurrence. The new provisions specify that if the fetal death occurs in a facility that prepares birth records, the report must be filed electronically; otherwise, a paper worksheet must be submitted by responsible medical personnel. Additionally, RSA 5-C:75 is repealed and reenacted to detail the required information in the fetal death report, including details about the fetus, mother, father, and circumstances surrounding the death. The bill also addresses the paternity affidavit process by repealing and reenacting RSA 5-C:76 and RSA 5-C:77, outlining the necessary information and signature requirements for the affidavit, which must be completed to add the father's name to the fetal death report.

Furthermore, the bill amends the procedures for the disposition of fetal remains by repealing and reenacting RSA 5-C:78, mandating that disposition information, excluding hospital dispositions, be filed electronically by a licensed funeral director or town/city clerk. The electronic burial permit will include detailed information about the fetus and the manner of disposition. RSA 5-C:79 is also amended to specify that written authorization from parents is required for the manner of disposition, with a burial permit needed for non-hospital dispositions and medical examiner authorization required for cremation. The burial permit must be submitted to the town or city clerk within six calendar days of the disposition. The act will take effect 120 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5-C:79
As Amended by the Senate: 5-C:79