This bill amends existing Oklahoma law regarding medicolegal investigations, specifically focusing on sudden unexplained infant deaths and related cases. It introduces definitions for terms such as Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS), Sudden Death in the Young (SDY), Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). The bill broadens the applicability of investigation requirements for these cases, mandating that medical examiners conduct thorough investigations, including autopsies and reviews of medical records, within 48 hours of a sudden and unexpected death. Additionally, it requires documentation of immunizations and reporting to the SUID and SDY Case Registry.

Furthermore, the bill updates the list of deaths that must be investigated, explicitly including those related to SIDS, SUID, SDY, and SADS. It also recodifies the amended section of law and establishes an effective date of November 1, 2026. The changes aim to enhance the accuracy and reliability of data collected on these types of deaths, ultimately informing public health policies and practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-938