The bill H. 4630 aims to enhance the reporting and investigation of sudden and unexpected deaths in infants and young individuals in South Carolina. It introduces a new section, 17-5-545, which mandates that coroners and medical examiners conduct thorough autopsies that include microscopic and toxicology studies, as well as a review of the deceased's immunization and medical records. Specifically, cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID), and Sudden Death in the Young (SDY) must be reported to a national registry coordinated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health. The bill also outlines penalties for failure to report these cases, including fines and potential disciplinary actions for repeated noncompliance.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions for terms such as Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS), SIDS, SUID, and SDY, ensuring that medical professionals have a clear understanding of the conditions that necessitate reporting. Compliance with the reporting requirements is considered permissible under state and federal medical privacy laws. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor, emphasizing the importance of timely and accurate reporting in the context of public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 17-5-545
Latest Version: 17-5-545