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, I, which mandates the preparation of a fetal death worksheet and the filing of a fetal death report within five days of the occurrence. The bill specifies 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 to the division for electronic filing. Additionally, it repeals and reenacts RSA 5-C:75, detailing the required information in the fetal death report, including details about the fetus, mother, and father, as well as medical and health information regarding the pregnancy. The bill also introduces new sections, RSA 5-C:76 and RSA 5-C:77, which outline the procedures for completing a fetal death paternity affidavit, requiring notarization and assistance from hospital staff.

Moreover, the bill amends RSA 5-C:78 to establish that disposition information for fetal deaths, excluding hospital dispositions, must 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. It also amends RSA 5-C:79 to require written authorization from the parent regarding the manner of disposition before it occurs, specifying that a burial permit must be completed for non-hospital dispositions and that authorization from the medical examiner is necessary for cremation. The bill mandates that the burial permit be submitted to the town or city clerk within six calendar days of the disposition and retained according to the record retention schedule in RSA 5-C:96. The act will take effect 120 days after its passage.

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