H 4833

SECTION 1. The General Laws are hereby amended by inserting after chapter 38 the following chapter:- CHAPTER 38A. THE BENSON BILL. Section 1. This act shall be known and may be cited as "The Benson Bill". Section 2. For the purposes of this chapter, the following words shall have the following meanings:- “Child,” any individual aged 5 years or younger. “Office,” the office of the chief medical examiner. Section 3. Notwithstanding any general or special law or rule or regulation to the contrary, the office shall be prohibited from assessing any fees or charges, including but not limited to, fees for cremation viewings, on families for the removal, transportation, or handling of a deceased child’s body. Section 4. Annually, not later than December 31, the office shall file a report on its work pertaining to the removal, transportation, or handling of deceased children’s bodies with the clerks of the house of representatives and the senate and the joint committee on public health. The report shall include, but not be limited to: (i) the total number of child cases handled by the office; (ii) any costs the office absorbed related to the removal, transportation, or handling of a deceased child’s body; and (iii) any recommendations for additional funding if necessary. Section 5. This act shall take effect 90 days after its passage.