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SD 617

An Act removing social security numbers from death certificates

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge

MA bill removes the term social security number from death certificates to protect privacy and prevent exposure of personal identifiers.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 617

Summary of SD 617: An Act removing social security numbers from death certificates

Purpose and intent

This bill aims to protect individuals’ privacy by removing references to social security numbers on death certificates filed in Massachusetts. By striking a specific reference to the Social Security number from the relevant statute, the bill reduces the potential for sensitive personal data to be exposed or misused in vital records processes.

Key provisions

  • Amends Chapter 46 of the General Laws (as appearing in the 2022 Official Edition).
  • Specifically removes the words “social security number” from line 23 of the cited section.
  • The effect is to eliminate the explicit reference to including or noting a social security number on death certificates within that portion of the statute.

Note: The text does not indicate additional changes beyond striking the stated language; the change is narrowly targeted to the referenced line in Chapter 46.

Who/what is affected

  • Death certificates and the process for filing them in Massachusetts.
  • State and local vital records offices and the personnel who prepare and process death certificates.
  • Families and estates of deceased individuals, who would benefit from reduced exposure of personal identifiers.
  • Privacy and data security practices associated with vital records management.

Legislative status and timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025 (Senate Docket No. 617; Senate petition No. 1523).
  • Status: House concurred on February 27, 2025.
  • Procedural steps: After House concurrence, the bill was referred to the Committee on Public Health (also on February 27, 2025).
  • Session context: Part of the 194th General Court (2025–2026) of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Practical considerations

  • Implementation: Likely requires updates to internal guidance, forms, and computer/system references used by vital records offices to ensure no SSN field is requested or displayed on death certificates.
  • Timing: As of the latest action, the bill has moved through House concurrence and referral to Public Health; further action would depend on the committee’s review and subsequent chamber votes.
  • Policy impact: Prioritizes privacy/safeguarding of personal identifiers in official records without creating new data collection requirements.

If you’d like, I can provide a concise comparison to current practice (what fields appear on death certificates today) or draft a one-page briefing for stakeholders (vital records offices, funeral directors, and privacy advocates).

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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