Watch CBS News

Bill Requiring Fetal Remains At Health Care Facilities To Be Cremated, Buried Passes State House

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) - A Pennsylvania House majority is giving its approval to a proposal to require the burial or cremation of fetal remains that end up in possession of a health care facility.

The bill, modeled on Indiana legislation that was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year, was sent to the state Senate on a vote of 123 to 76.

Supporters framed it as giving parents greater say in the disposal of remains, while opponents argued it would harass abortion facilities and impinge on women's health choices.

The legislation says parents can decide to dispose of the remains outside a health care facility after an abortion or miscarriage.

If they don't, the facility must bury or cremate them.

(Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.