HARRISBURG – A bill sponsored by Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27) was signed into law this week to enable licensed practical nurses (LPNs) working in a hospice setting to make death pronouncements.
“I am grateful for the governor’s support of this important legislation,” Culver said. “LPNs are with patients and their families until the moment of death, providing essential care during emotional times. Allowing LPNs to make death pronouncements, which was previously only a function of doctors, RNs, physician assistants, and coroners, can alleviate wait times that grieving families often experience.”
The bill was amended in the House of Representatives to also provide needed clarification on the waiver of birth and death certificate fees for members of the armed services, veterans, and their families. The law now outlines specifically whose documents qualify for the waiver, as well as applicants and scenarios for which the fee may be waived.
“I commend Representative Sheryl Delozier for taking the lead on this important amendment,” said Culver. “A State Registrar notice to funeral directors last year upended a longstanding, statutorily provided benefit to those who have served our country and their families, and her amendment rights that wrong.”
Culver’s Senate Bill 1080 was signed into law as Act 137 of 2024 and takes effect in 60 days.
More information about Culver is available online at SenatorCulver.com. Residents can follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SenCulver and on Instagram at Instagram.com/SenatorCulver for updates about legislative action in Harrisburg and news in the 27th District.
Media Contact: Betsy Reichenbach
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