Funeral Services in Hesse Strengthen Rights for Parents of Angel Babies
Hessen strengthens rights for parents of stillborn children - Hesse's New Law Grants Parents the Right to Bury 'Angel Babies'
A reform of the Hessian Cemetery and Funeral Act grants parents of angel babies a legally established right to an individual funeral for their deceased children. The reform also extends the funeral deadline from four to ten days. The law was passed in the state parliament in Wiesbaden with the votes of the factions of CDU, SPD, AfD, and Greens.
"The death of a loved one is often a shock that comes suddenly," explained Interior Minister Roman Poseck (CDU). "Those who have to travel from further away simply need more time to organize the funeral and burial." Therefore, the maximum deadline for burial will be extended. The minimum deadline of at least 48 hours after death will remain in place.
Angel babies who weigh less than 500 grams and are born before the 24th week of pregnancy will now have a clear right to burial, explained Poseck. "We have also made it clear that these regulations apply to twin or multiple angel babies." To ensure that affected parents are aware of their rights during this difficult time, hospitals will be required to inform them of this burial option in the future.
* **Funeral Act** * **Hesse** * **Wiesbaden** * **CDU** * **Death** * **Roman Poseck** * **Children**
