Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education for Autumn Act of 2023 SHINE for Autumn Act of 2023
Impact
The bill proposes to allocate funding for grants specifically aimed at improving state and local public health infrastructure. It authorizes $5 million annually from fiscal years 2024 through 2028 for these initiatives. It also includes provisions for the development of educational guidelines and materials that promote awareness about stillbirths, targeting both healthcare providers and the general public. Such efforts are expected to deepen the understanding of stillbirth risk factors and improve health outcomes for expectant mothers.
Summary
SB2647, known as the 'Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education for Autumn Act of 2023' (SHINE for Autumn Act), is designed to enhance research and data collection pertaining to stillbirths. This legislation aims to grant states the capacity to conduct surveillance and gather vital data regarding stillbirths, including the identification of risk factors and outcomes associated with these incidents. By utilizing existing datasets from maternal mortality and fetal and infant mortality reviews, the bill intends to bolster public health initiatives surrounding stillbirth awareness and prevention.
Contention
A notable point of contention in the discourse surrounding SB2647 is the balance between privacy and data collection. The bill stipulates that all data collected must respect personal privacy and comply with existing federal and state laws. This raises concerns among privacy advocates about the potential misuse of sensitive information. Additionally, discussions on funding levels and the effectiveness of these programs may arise, as stakeholders will want to ensure that financial resources allocated towards this initiative translate into meaningful health outcomes.
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.