The bill amends section 11-19.1-06 of the North Dakota Century Code, which outlines the individuals authorized to perform coroner duties in the absence of a coroner. The amendment specifies that in counties where a coroner is not available, the responsibilities will be taken on by the sheriff, a state highway patrol officer, or a special agent from the bureau of criminal investigation. Additionally, it introduces the term "a coroner" to clarify the role and removes references to "the" state highway patrol and "the" nearesta coroner, streamlining the language.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that when a coroner is unavailable due to distance or adverse conditions, the sheriff, state highway patrol, or special agent must request the state forensic examiner or their designee to investigate and certify the medical cause of death. This change aims to ensure that there is a clear protocol for handling coroner cases in situations where a coroner cannot be present, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of death investigations in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 11-19.1-06
Enrollment: 11-19.1-06