Final Texas Rules On Disposal of Fetal Remains Are Adopted

Texas Tribune reports that yesterday the Texas Health and Human Services Commission filed final rules on disposition of fetal tissue with the Secretary of State's office.  Under the rules, which take effect December 19, hospitals, abortion clinics and other health care facilities may not dispose of fetal remains in sanitary landfills and instead are required to cremate or bury all remains regardless of the period of gestation. Amendments to the proposed rules that appear in the final rules clarify that the requirements do not apply to miscarriages or abortions that occur at home. Also, to protect privacy, birth or death certificates will not be required before disposal. Health care facilities, not patients, will be responsible for the costs of burial or cremation. [Thanks to Scott Mange for the lead.]