Bill allowing birth certificates for stillbirths advances
by Dana Tackett; The Indianapolis Star, January 22, 2002

Lorri Jacob's only proof of her stillborn son, David, is his grave site. She was allowed a birth certificate but that law might soon change in Indiana.

Last week, the state Senate unanimously passed legislation that would allow parents a "certificate of birth resulting in stillbirth." The proposal also must pass the Indiana House, where some members fear it could trigger a new debate over abortion and when life begins.

The state requires burial or cremation of a stillborn child, defined as one who survives more than 20 weeks after conception. Local health departments issue a fetal death certificate, citing concerns about identity theft or parents claiming the child as a dependent on their taxes.

The author of Senate Bill 149, Sen. Connie Lawson, R-Danville, received dozens of e-mails of praise from across the nation and might have key support among leaders in the Democratic-run House.

Rep. Vanessa Summers, D-Indianapolis, sponsor of the bill in the House, chairs the Human Affairs Committee, which might hear it.

Rep. Charlie Brown, D-Gary, chairman of the House Public Health Committee, said he would consider hearing the proposal after making sure it was as "honest and innocent" as it seemed - and, if passes, couldn't be tied to arguments against abortion.

The proposed certificate would not be proof of a live birth.

For that reason, Dinah Farrington, vice president of public policy for Planned Parenthood of Great Indiana, said her group hasn't fought the proposal.

It would cost the state aboue $15,5000 to get the program running and $500 annually for printing.

Jacobs, who gave birth to David on New Years Day 1999, believes the piece of paper could provide closure to grieving families.

"It won't help me, but it may help everybody after me," Jacobs said. "The stillbirth certificate is for people who want to validate their child's existence."

Call Dana Tackett at 1-317-615-2383

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