This bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code related to the responsibilities and procedures of county coroners. Key changes include the establishment of specific circumstances under which a coroner must investigate a death, such as suspected homicides, suicides, and deaths occurring under suspicious circumstances. The bill also introduces a new section defining the powers and duties of county coroners, emphasizing their role as medicolegal death investigators responsible for determining the cause and manner of death. Additionally, it mandates that coroners complete continuing education requirements and outlines the process for conducting autopsies, including the need for parental notification when a minor is involved.

Further amendments include the repeal of outdated provisions regarding the appointment of deputies and the revision of terminology related to human remains. The bill also clarifies the definitions of key terms such as "forensic autopsy" and "medicolegal death investigation." It establishes a fee structure for death certificate copies, with funds allocated for the training and continuing education of coroners. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 19-4301, 19-4301B, 31-2808, 31-2809, 31-2810, 31-3107, 34-622, 39-252