SHINE for Autumn Act of 2023 Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education for Autumn Act of 2023
Impact
If enacted, this bill would introduce amendments to the Public Health Service Act, specifically by authorizing grants to states for the collection of stillbirth data and establishing administrative guidelines for uniform reporting. The allotment of $5 million annually through 2028 is designated for these initiatives, aimed at building public health capacities. Key provisions would include the allowance for states to develop educational materials on stillbirths and train health care providers on proper data collection methodologies.
Summary
House Bill 5012, known as the 'SHINE for Autumn Act of 2023', seeks to enhance research and data collection regarding stillbirths. The legislation aims to facilitate the establishment of state-endorsed programs that conduct vital surveillance studies, collect comprehensive data about stillbirths, and investigate potential risk factors associated with these occurrences. This alignment is expected to improve public health strategies and promote higher care standards among maternal and child health professionals.
Contention
The SHINE for Autumn Act underscores the growing recognition of stillbirth as a critical issue in maternal health, highlighting the need for improved data collection capabilities and research funding. Some stakeholders argue that while the bill proposes significant advancements, there might be concerns about how effectively the funds will be utilized and whether the collected data sufficiently protects the privacy of individuals involved. Other points of contention may arise regarding the focus of research, particularly as it relates to funding priorities in public health.
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.