This bill amends existing laws regarding medicolegal investigations in Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the responsibilities of the Chief Medical Examiner's office. It requires that each investigation into a death includes a review of the deceased's medication, immunization, and medical records, as well as an autopsy and any necessary microscopic and toxicology studies to determine the cause of death. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the body of the deceased must be turned over to a designated funeral director within 24 hours unless further investigation is required, and the investigation should be completed within 60 days, barring any extenuating circumstances.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the medical examiner document any new medications, immunizations, or emergency countermeasures administered to the deceased within 90 days prior to death. If there is a reasonable belief that suicide may have been a factor in the death, the medical examiner is required to classify the death as a suicide, probable suicide, or possible suicide based on the evidence available. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-941