NY STILLBIRTH CERTIFICATE LAW PASSED
On March 21 2012, the Certificate of Still Birth became law. It was a proud day for many that worked to grant stillborn children a certificate. As a member of the bereaved parent community and the Executive Director of the WNY Perinatal Bereavement Network, it was moving to watch on-line live the remarks and comments made by members of the NYS Assembly and NYS Senate. I was so proud that Senator Kennedy thanked all of us who worked and advocated for this bill to become a law for years. Kelly Anderson, a bereaved mom, who is very involved with our Network was there in person representing all of us and the Network.
The law will now allow any parent who has had a stillborn child (20+ weeks) to apply for a birth certificate with the New York Department of Health. The law also has a retroactive clause that allows certificates to be requested for losses that occurred prior to the passing of this law. There is a $30.00 fee that must be submitted with the notarized application.
The WNYPBN will be partnering with NYS Senator Timothy Kennedy and his staff on Sunday, March 25th, at 1 pm at Mercy Hospital 3rd floor Conference Room A & B. We want to invite bereaved family members to attend the conference to celebrate the passing of this law. Also, we will provide applications for the Certificate of Still Birth. Kelly Anderson, a notary, and the Senator’s Father-in-law will be on hand to notarize each application.
We will have envelopes on hand with stamps so these can get out in the mail as soon as possible. We will have an informational table there, coffee and donuts. Please spread the word and let everyone know we want a wonderful turnout as so many have been effected by the tragic loss of a still born baby in our community. Hope to see you all there!
Christine Scott
Bereaved Mother of Jacob Wesley Scott
Executive Director of WNYPBN, Inc.
Download the Still Birth Certificate Application
How We Can Help • Who We Are • Support • Services
Programs & Events • Volunteer • Wish List • Newsletter
Photo Gallery • Affiliations • Resources • Contact Us