Bill > HB4841

This bill amends Michigan's Public Health Code to provide new requirements and penalties regarding the final disposition of fetal remains, specifically for fetuses that have completed less than 20 weeks of gestation or weigh under 400 grams. The bill mandates that when such a fetus is delivered or miscarried in a medical institution, parents must be given an opportunity to elect the final disposition of the fetus or fetal remains. If an institution fails to provide this option, they can be penalized: for a first violation, they may be subject to a state civil infraction with a potential fine of up to $10,000, and for subsequent violations, they could face misdemeanor charges that include up to 90 days in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000. The bill also modifies existing language about obtaining authorization for final disposition, allowing parents to choose between interment, cremation, or incineration. Additionally, the bill adjusts penalties for failing to obtain proper authorization for final disposition of a dead body, updating the potential civil fine from $1,000 to reflect the new provisions. The changes aim to provide more explicit guidance and potential consequences for handling fetal remains in medical settings.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4841