This bill revises the procedures for reporting fetal death records in New Hampshire by repealing and reenacting RSA 5-C:74. It requires that a fetal death worksheet be prepared and a report filed for every fetal death, with electronic filing mandated for deaths occurring in facilities that prepare birth records. In cases where the death occurs outside of such facilities, a paper worksheet must be submitted to the division, which will then file the report electronically. The bill also specifies the information required in the fetal death report, including details about the fetus, parents, method of disposition, and relevant medical information. Additionally, it introduces a certificate of stillbirth and outlines the requirements for a fetal death paternity affidavit, including the necessary information and notarization.

Moreover, the bill establishes new procedures for handling fetal death records, mandating that hospital staff assist parents in preparing the paternity affidavit, which must be electronically filed with the fetal death report. It also repeals and reenacts RSA 5-C:78, allowing for the electronic generation of burial permits for fetal remains, which must include specific details about the fetus and the manner of disposition. The bill amends RSA 5-C:79 to require written parental authorization for the disposition of fetal remains and mandates that burial permits be submitted to the local clerk within six days of disposition. The act is set to take effect 120 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5-C:79