Substitute House Bill No. 5239 seeks to amend the structure and functions of the Independent Mortality Review Board (IMRB) within the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) by consolidating the Fatality Review Board (FRB) into the IMRB, effectively repealing the statutory reference to Executive Order No. 57 that previously established both boards. The bill codifies the IMRB's membership, allowing for flexibility in appointments while ensuring that a majority of members are not DDS employees. It also clarifies that the DDS commissioner or their designee can conduct reviews and refer cases to the IMRB as necessary. New provisions allow for comprehensive reviews of deaths involving individuals with intellectual disabilities under DDS care, while adhering to confidentiality and peer review laws.

The bill maintains the requirement for DDS to investigate deaths of individuals under its care and mandates the commissioner to report any death that raises questions about care, involves allegations of abuse or neglect, falls under the jurisdiction of a medical examiner, or is deemed unexpected. The IMRB is tasked with investigating these reports and may request necessary documentation to conduct its investigations. The new language emphasizes the board's investigative role and enhances accountability and oversight in the care provided by DDS, streamlining the mortality review process for individuals with intellectual disabilities.