Bill > HB1858

This bill modifies the requirements for reporting fetal deaths in Hawaii, aiming to improve data collection and support grieving families, particularly noting the disproportionately high fetal death rates among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. Key provisions include establishing a minimum gestational age of twenty weeks or a weight of at least three hundred fifty grams for mandatory fetal death registration, with exceptions for miscarriages under this threshold and intentionally terminated pregnancies, thereby aligning with federal recommendations and reducing administrative burdens. The bill also extends the reporting deadline for fetal deaths to fourteen days to allow for more thorough determination of causes, clarifies when a permit is needed for the disposition of fetal remains, and allows for optional documentation of fetal death for miscarriages less than twenty weeks gestation upon request from the birthing parent, which serves as a supportive measure for healing rather than a legal record. Additionally, it defines terms like "advanced practice registered nurse" and "physician assistant" and makes conforming changes to existing statutes regarding the department's authority and the reporting of deaths.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1858&year=2026