Dignity for Aborted Children Act

# Dignity for Aborted Children Act - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require abortion providers to give patients a choice in how fetal tissue is handled after an abortion. Patients could either keep the tissue themselves or allow the provider to handle it. If the provider handles the tissue, they would be required to have it buried or cremated within seven days, following state laws for human remains. Abortion providers would need to document these choices in patient records and submit annual reports to the Department of Health and Human Services about their compliance. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill directly affects abortion providers and patients seeking abortions.

It establishes civil penalties (fines) for providers who don't follow these requirements. The bill requires informed consent from patients about their options and creates a reporting system for the federal government to track compliance. The specific disposal methods—burial or cremation—must follow each state's laws regarding human remains. **Current Status** This bill (S 242) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate.