Rep. Slager’s hospital guidance bill signed into law
STATEHOUSE—State Representative Hal Slager (R-Schererville) authored House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1190 which provides parents who have suffered through a miscarriage with resources and information regarding their options. HEA 1190 was ceremoniously signed into law by Governor Mike Pence.
Under current law, hospitals are not required to provide any information to parents on how to properly handle miscarried remains. Some hospitals handle the remains if a miscarriage occurs 20 weeks or earlier into the pregnancy. This bill will give parents options regardless of the duration of the pregnancy.
“Miscarriage is a truly tragic event that creates heartbreak for so many families,” said Rep. Slager. “No one in that situation should have to feel like they do not understand what is happening, or that their options are being taken from them. It is imperative that we support these families who have suffered such a devastating loss.”
HEA 1190 requires hospitals to explain the parents’ rights, provide them with information on different options and inform them of any counseling opportunities available.
“I hope that providing parents with options will give them healthy ways to grieve and that the process of healing can begin for those hurting,” said Rep. Slager.
HEA 1190 will go into effect July 1, 2014. |
