This bill amends existing laws related to medicolegal investigations, specifically focusing on sudden unexplained infant deaths and other sudden deaths in young individuals. 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 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, adding SIDS, SUID, SDY, and SADS to the existing categories. It also recodifies the amended section and establishes an effective date of November 1, 2026. The State Department of Health is tasked with compiling accurate data on these types of deaths to inform public health policies. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the investigation process for sudden deaths in infants and young individuals, ensuring better data collection and understanding of these tragic occurrences.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-938