Senate Bill 2171 Summary

• Requires institutions to release fetal remains to mothers upon request and establish written authorization procedures for final disposition by burial or cremation.

• Mandates filing of fetal death certificates within three days of fetal death and establishes procedures for medical certification and registrar filing.

• Prohibits sale, transfer, distribution, or use of aborted fetal remains for experimentation except for diagnostic/remedial procedures or pathological study.

• Imposes felony penalties of at least one year imprisonment and/or up to $10,000 fines for violations including unlawful disposition of remains, unauthorized experimentation, and performing abortions for purposes of obtaining fetal remains.

• Adds violations of the act as grounds for professional discipline including suspension or revocation of licenses for physicians, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses.