Hawaii Senate Bill SCR68

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/22
• Refer: 3/11/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Issue Certificates Of Stillbirth.

Impact

The resolution highlights that approximately one in every 160 births in the U.S. results in stillbirth, amounting to around 24,000 stillborn births annually. By recognizing these losses through the issuance of stillbirth certificates, the state would align with several other states that provide this service. The intention is to improve the wellbeing of parents who experience stillbirth by potentially reducing feelings of grief and bereavement while enhancing their emotional and mental health recovery process.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 68 (SCR68) addresses the issue of issuing certificates of stillbirth in the state of Hawaii. Currently, the state does not provide birth certificates for stillborn infants, requiring only a report of fetal death. SCR68 urges the Department of Health to establish a protocol for issuing certificates of stillbirth, recognizing the reality of stillbirths and their significant emotional impact on parents and families. The resolution seeks to provide formal acknowledgment of the life of a stillborn infant and aims to support bereaved families by creating a document that honors their loss.

Contention

While there may not be significant opposing arguments documented, the introduction of certificates of stillbirth is driven by the understanding that bereaved parents face higher risks of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Advocates for the resolution argue that it not only respects the fleeting existence of stillborn infants but also addresses the gap in current birth registrations which neglect the emotional importance of recognizing stillbirths. The Department of Health is tasked with assessing feasibility and recommending legislation for implementing this important change in state law.