The bill amends R.S. 44:19(E)(4) to enhance the documentation requirements for death investigations concerning human remains and internal organs. It specifies that the post-mortem forensic medical examination report, commonly known as the autopsy report, must include detailed information about the decedent, such as their name, address, date of birth, age, sex, race, date and time of death, place of death, and the name of the doctor performing the autopsy. Additionally, the report must document any organs retained in accordance with R.S. 13:5713(B)(4)(b). The report is classified as a non-public document, except under certain conditions, and must be made available to law enforcement agencies and the decedent's next of kin upon request.

The bill is titled the "Gracey Claire Rushing Act," named in memory of a child whose death in 2009 underscored the need for improved safeguards in the treatment of deceased individuals' remains. The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
HB1253 Original: 25:957(A)
HB1253 Engrossed: 25:957(A)
HB1253 Reengrossed: 44:19(E)(4)
HB1253 Enrolled: 44:19(E)(4)
HB1253 Act 727: 44:19(E)(4)