The bill aims to enhance the dignity and respect afforded to individuals experiencing pregnancy loss in Washington State. It introduces new legal provisions that ensure individuals can seek medical assistance without the fear of civil or criminal liability related to pregnancy outcomes. Specifically, the bill amends RCW 68.50.010 to remove outdated language that previously allowed for investigations into certain abortions and pregnancy losses, thereby protecting individuals from potential criminalization. The bill clarifies that the removal of these provisions does not affect the requirements for reporting births or deaths, including fetal deaths, or the ability of coroners to investigate suspicious circumstances surrounding deaths.

Additionally, the bill mandates that correctional institutions and private detention facilities report annually to the Department of Health on the number of individuals who experience miscarriage, stillbirth, or perinatal loss while incarcerated. The Department of Health is tasked with compiling this data into a statewide report for the legislature, ensuring that personal identifying information is not disclosed. Furthermore, the bill repeals RCW 9.02.050, which pertains to concealing birth, and establishes a timeline for the implementation of these changes, with certain sections taking effect on July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 68.50.010, 70.395.020
Substitute Bill: 68.50.010, 70.395.020
Bill as Passed Legislature: 68.50.010, 70.395.020
Session Law: 68.50.010, 70.395.020