This bill proposes a significant shift in the selection process for county coroners in Washington State, transitioning from an elected position to an appointed one. The legislation amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), specifically RCW 36.16.030, 43.101.480, 36.16.050, 36.17.020, and 36.24.205. Key changes include the deletion of the requirement for counties to elect a coroner and the insertion of a mandate that each county legislative authority must appoint a coroner. Additionally, it allows counties with populations over 250,000 to replace the coroner's office with a medical examiner system, aiming to enhance professionalism and save taxpayer money.

The bill also establishes new training requirements for coroners and medical examiners, mandating that they complete medicolegal forensic investigation training within 12 months of their appointment, in accordance with standards set by the criminal justice training commission. It outlines conditions for counties to enter into interlocal agreements for coroner or medical examiner services and adjusts bond amounts for various county officials. Furthermore, it specifies that failure to obtain the required certification may result in reduced reimbursement from the death investigations account. The act is deemed essential for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 36.16.030, 43.101.480, 36.16.050, 36.17.020, 36.24.205