The State Senate Appropriations Committee recommended a due pass for House Bill 15 11, approving a $50,000 appropriation to develop an instructional video for obstetricians and gynecologists on the legal and medical ramifications of stillbirths and related cases.

Senator Conley, speaking for the bill, said the proposal would fund production of a 45- to 60-minute video that combines legal and medical content. Committee discussion focused on whether medical schools already provide the training and whether the video duplicates existing materials. Supporters said existing videos are shorter (five to 10 minutes) and that the proposed product would be more comprehensive and include legal guidance.

The appropriation was broken down in committee testimony as roughly $15,000 for physician and attorney research and development, about $23,000 for production, and $5,000 for website upkeep and other fees, totaling $50,000. Committee members noted that the bill text lists $50,000 “or so much as may be needed,” which could allow actual spending below the maximum if costs are lower.

Senator Clary questioned language in the bill that appears to refer to physician exceptions for abortion, asking why the statute would include permission language when abortion is restricted under state law. A committee member responded that the video is intended to explain exceptions — for example, treatment of ectopic pregnancy or cases where the mother’s life is at risk.

After discussion, Senator Wanzek moved a due pass on House Bill 15 11; the motion was seconded by Senator Burkhart. The recorded vote on the bill was announced as “Motion passed 13 2 1.”

Ending

Sponsors said the bill will return to policy committees for final policy review; the appropriations vote was limited to the funding request. The committee’s recommendation advances the $50,000 appropriation to the next stage.