Missouri 2023 Regular Session

Missouri Senate Bill SB427

Introduced
1/4/23  

Caption

Modifies provisions relating to death certificates

Impact

If enacted, SB 427 would have significant impacts on how death records are created and registered in Missouri. By transitioning to an electronic system, the bill aims to reduce errors associated with manual data entry and expedite the process of issuing death certificates. This change could lead to more efficient communication among medical professionals, coroners, and registrars, ultimately enhancing the overall management of vital records.

Summary

Senate Bill 427 seeks to amend the existing provisions related to death certificates in the state of Missouri, primarily by updating requirements for electronic death registration systems. The proposed legislation mandates that all data providers involved in the death registration process are required to adopt this electronic system within six months of its certification as operational. This aims to streamline the reporting and maintenance of vital records, thereby improving the efficiency of public health administration.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 427 has generally been positive, with supporters highlighting the importance of modernizing vital record processes and improving public health infrastructure. Advocates believe that implementing an electronic system will lead to increased accuracy and quicker access to vital records, which can be critical in legal and social contexts. However, there may also be concerns regarding the transition process for those who are less familiar with electronic systems, raising questions about training and accessibility.

Contention

Notably, points of contention surrounding SB 427 include the potential challenges associated with the implementation of the electronic registration system, especially among smaller medical facilities and those in rural areas where technology access might be limited. Additionally, the bill outlines that individuals involved in the completion of medical certifications will be immune from civil liability, which may provoke discussions about accountability in the certification process. Critics might argue that this could lead to lapses in oversight and quality of data reported.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO SB421

Modifies provisions relating to death certificates

MO SB1070

Modifies provisions relating to the right of sepulcher and the death registration process

MO SB116

Modifies provisions relating to the disposition of the dead

MO SB17

AN ACT relating to certificates of death.

MO HB32

AN ACT relating to certificates of death.

MO HB1688

Vital records; vital statistics; definition; corrections; birth certificates; death certificates; fetal death certificates; effective date; emergency.

MO HB2358

Relating to the uniform vital statistics act; regarding certification of individual causes of death; permitting cause of death certifiers to provide certification.

MO SB020

Timely Certified Death Certificates

MO HB1082

Qualified Individuals Death Certificates

MO AB583

Death certificates.

Similar Bills

MO SB421

Modifies provisions relating to death certificates

MO SB1070

Modifies provisions relating to the right of sepulcher and the death registration process

CA AB585

Electronic death registration system.

CA AB583

Death certificates.

MO SB116

Modifies provisions relating to the disposition of the dead

CO HB1082

Qualified Individuals Death Certificates

CA SB43

County health systems: County of San Mateo: dental care services.

OK SB707

Public health and safety; modifying provisions related to death certificates; requiring Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to make certain disclosure. Effective date.