This bill amends existing North Dakota law regarding the confidentiality and disclosure of autopsy reports and related materials. Specifically, it modifies subsection 4 of section 11-19.1-11 to allow the coroner to disclose autopsy reports not only for investigations, inquests, or prosecutions but also for inspections by the department of corrections and rehabilitation. Additionally, it mandates that the coroner must provide a copy of the autopsy report to the state forensic examiner.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new subdivision to subsection 4 of section 23-01-05.5, which specifies that autopsy reports must be disclosed to the department of corrections and rehabilitation if the decedent was an inmate in a county, regional, or state correctional facility. This change aims to enhance transparency and ensure that relevant authorities have access to critical information regarding deceased inmates.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 11-19.1-11
Enrollment: 11-19.1-11
PREFILED: 11-19.1-11