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 requires a fetal death worksheet to be prepared and a report filed within five days of the occurrence. 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. The bill also repeals and reenacts RSA 5-C:75, detailing the required information for the fetal death report, including details about the fetus, mother, father, and circumstances of the death. Additionally, it addresses the paternity affidavit process by repealing and reenacting RSA 5-C:76 and RSA 5-C:77, ensuring that the father's information can be included in the report and that the paternity affidavit is retained according to existing schedules.

Furthermore, the bill amends RSA 5-C:78 to mandate that information regarding fetal deaths, except for hospital dispositions, must be filed electronically by a licensed funeral director or town/city clerk. The burial permit for fetal remains will be generated electronically and will include detailed information about the fetus and the manner of disposition. The bill also amends RSA 5-C:79 to outline the procedures for obtaining written parental authorization for the manner of disposition, requiring a burial permit for non-hospital dispositions and medical examiner authorization for cremation. The burial permit must be submitted to the town or city clerk within six days of the disposition and retained according to the established record retention schedule. The act will take effect 120 days after its passage.

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