The bill amends Section 11 of Article 49.25 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance the confidentiality of certain autopsy records. It specifies that the medical examiner must maintain comprehensive records, including the cause and manner of death, and outlines the conditions under which photographs or x-rays taken during an autopsy may be disclosed. Notably, the bill introduces new provisions allowing for the release of such images to the next of kin of the deceased, while still maintaining certain exceptions under the Government Code.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that a governmental body can withhold photographs or x-rays without needing to request a decision from the attorney general, provided the disclosure falls under the specified exceptions. It also establishes that releasing these images does not constitute a public release of information, thereby preserving the right to assert confidentiality in the future. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to requests for information received after that date.