Provides relative to Missing Angel Certificates issued by the state registrar of vital records (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Impact
If enacted, HB 239 would clarify and expand the recognition of stillbirths by ensuring that parents are provided with the Missing Angel Certificate upon request, free of charge for the first copy. This would signify a formal acknowledgment of the loss experienced by parents, potentially providing them with greater access to resources and support related to stillbirth. Furthermore, the bill's requirements would also reinforce the state's commitment to better documenting spontaneous fetal deaths, thereby enhancing the public health data landscape.
Summary
House Bill 239 aims to amend existing statutes regarding the issuance of stillbirth certificates in Louisiana, officially designating them as 'Missing Angel Certificates'. This change seeks to recognize the emotional significance of a stillbirth to parents and improve how such instances are documented by the state. The proposed law stipulates that the Missing Angel Certificate shall be made available on public ordering forms for birth and death certificates, thereby standardizing the process for acquiring these documents.
Sentiment
General sentiment toward HB 239 appears to be supportive, especially among those advocating for parental acknowledgment and support regarding stillbirths. Stakeholders, including health professionals and parenting advocacy groups, likely view this legislation as a positive step toward better mental health resources for grieving families. However, the discussions surrounding implementation logistics and the effectiveness of public awareness about the Missing Angel Certificate may present some points of contention as the bill progresses.
Contention
Notable points of contention include ensuring that the public health office adequately promotes the availability of the Missing Angel Certificate and addressing any potential administrative challenges that may arise in implementing the new provisions. Critics may voice concerns about the practicalities of rolling out the new certificates, such as the sufficiency of training for staff handling these sensitive matters and whether the changing nomenclature effectively meets the emotional needs of bereaved parents.
Requires the division of vital records to ensure that the records are accessible to the local registrars and grant local registrars the authority to issue certified copies of certificates and records.
Requires the division of vital records to ensure that the records are accessible to the local registrars and grant local registrars the authority to issue certified copies of certificates and records.
Supporting the designation of September 19, 2023, as "National Stillbirth Prevention Day", recognizing tens of thousands of American families that have endured a stillbirth, and seizing the opportunity to keep other families from experiencing the same tragedy.