This bill amends provisions related to the disposition of decedents' personal property by coroners and medical examiners in Minnesota. Specifically, it modifies Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 390.225, subdivision 5, to change the terminology from "name" to "identity" of unknown decedents. The bill allows for the decedent's personal property to be placed with the decedent for burial, arranged for long-term storage, or directly disposed of in accordance with section 525.393. The previous requirement for the county to release property for disposal or sale has been removed, and the effective date for this change is the day following final enactment.

Additionally, the bill amends section 525.393 to clarify the responsibilities of coroners and medical examiners regarding the inventory and disposal of a decedent's personal property. It introduces a new provision that allows for the surrender of personal property to known blood relatives or individuals with the right to control the disposition of the decedent's remains after a specified time period. The bill also permits coroners and medical examiners to sell or dispose of personal property as directed, with the revenue from such sales being deposited into their office financial accounts to cover reasonable expenses. This section also becomes effective the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 390.225, 525.393