Louisiana Bill Regarding the Final Disposition of Fetal Remains (HB 618)

This law was last updated on Aug 2, 2018

State

Louisiana

Number

HB 618

Status

Current

Proposed

Mar 4, 2016

Topics

Fetal Tissue, Human Embryo and Fetal Research

Full Bill Text

www.legis.la.gov

HB 618 requires a health facility to provide notice of a parent’s right to determine the final disposition of fetal remains.

The law requires a health facility, prior to the final disposition of a miscarried or stillborn child, to notify at least one parent, orally and in writing, of their right to arrange for the final disposition of the child, as well as the availability of a chaplain or other counseling concerning the death of the child, whether provided by the facility or another provider.

If the parent’s decision for final disposition is not received within 48 hours, the law requires the health facility to dispose of the remains in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Dept. of Health and Hospitals.

STATUS

Signed into law by Gov. John Bel Edwards (D) on May 10, 2016. The law took effect January 1, 2017.