If this bill were to become law, it would amend the current statute regarding the responsibilities of forensic pathologists in cases of sudden and unexplained infant deaths. The existing law, which mandates that a forensic pathologist perform an autopsy and notify the Department of Health Services if sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is determined, would be updated to include new requirements. Specifically, the medical examiner or forensic pathologist would be required to review the infant's immunization and vaccination history, as well as any countermeasures administered in the 90 days prior to the infant's death.

Additionally, the bill would mandate that all sudden and unexplained infant deaths be reported to a national case registry that tracks such incidents, in accordance with protocols established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This insertion aims to enhance the investigation process and improve data collection related to sudden infant deaths, thereby potentially aiding in future prevention efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-597