Texas House Bill HB1340

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 1340 represent a significant update to state laws concerning the documentation of stillbirths. By establishing clearer guidelines for obtaining certificates of birth resulting in stillbirth, the bill potentially enhances the emotional support available to bereaved parents. This recognition can help validate the loss experienced by the parents and may carry implications for grief processes in familial contexts. The amendment streams the procedures surrounding these sensitive situations and aims to reduce administrative burdens on parents during a difficult time.

Summary

House Bill 1340 seeks to amend the Health and Safety Code in relation to the issuance of certificates for births resulting in stillbirth. The bill redefines the term 'stillbirth' to encompass unintended fetal deaths occurring after a gestational age of not less than twenty completed weeks. An essential aspect of the bill is that it provides clarity on the process for parents wishing to obtain a certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth, which can now be requested without the limitation of a specific time frame relative to when the fetal death certificate was issued. The bill aims to support parents by formally recognizing the stillbirth through documentation, which can serve as a significant acknowledgment of their loss.

Contention

While the bill has benefits for parental recognition of stillbirths, it may also raise discussions about the administrative aspects of issuing such certificates and any associated costs. It does not appear that there are directly contentious points highlighted in the discussions or voting history, but general debates regarding healthcare and administrative processes in relation to loss may surface among stakeholders such as healthcare providers, legislators, and advocacy groups for end-of-life issues. Overall, the bill seems to foster a supportive legislative environment while ensuring that vital statistics accurately reflect significant life events and the experiences of families.