Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) said the Assembly passed a bill tonight that will enable parents of stillborn children to receive a stillbirth certificate. Parents are currently only issued a fetal death certificate in these cases in New York.

“I’m pleased this bill passed the Assembly. I’ve heard from several constituents who feel strongly that having a stillbirth certificate available will help ease pain and suffering, and aid in the healing process. Providing the certificate seems the least our Health Departments can do for grieving mothers and fathers who have gone through labor and delivery and suffered such a loss,” said Barclay.

The bill, if signed by the Governor, will require Health Departments to issue a certificate of stillbirth when requested by the family. It would allow parents to record a name on the certificate.

Barclay is a sponsor of this legislation. Earlier this week, he urged his Assembly colleagues to bring this through the necessary committees and to the floor of the Assembly for a vote before the end of session this spring.