The bill amends the Revised Code to establish mandatory registration for all fetal deaths and the filing of a "certificate of life" upon detecting a fetal heartbeat. It redefines "fetal death" to include deaths prior to complete expulsion from the mother, with specific provisions for abortion, spontaneous miscarriage, and stillbirth. New sections require local registrars to register fetal deaths, with the cause of death certified by a physician or coroner, depending on the circumstances. The bill also clarifies the registration process, mandating a fetal death certificate for human conceptions of at least twenty weeks of gestation, which must include the cause of death and outline healthcare providers' responsibilities in certifying and registering these events.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for healthcare providers to prepare and file a "certificate of life" within ten days when a fetal heartbeat is detected, ensuring that the woman receives a printed copy of this information. It emphasizes the responsibilities of hospitals and physicians in providing documentation to women experiencing fetal death, including a written statement confirming the miscarriage and details on disposing of fetal remains. The bill also enhances the integrity of vital records by prohibiting deception related to certificates and records, while reinforcing the role of coroners and medical examiners in certifying causes of death for fetal deaths occurring after twenty weeks of gestation. Several existing sections of the Revised Code are repealed to streamline and update the legal framework surrounding these issues.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 313.12, 3705.01, 3705.08, 3705.16, 3705.20, 3705.29, 3727.16, 4731.82