Relating to scrutinizing death.
What changed between versions
Expanded the list of suspicious death scenarios triggering mandatory family interviews and evidence reviews to include 'other undetermined causes' and 'suspicious circumstances' beyond just suicide, overdose, and accidents.
Added a new requirement for law enforcement or medical examiners to request further post-mortem examinations if there is a reasonable basis to suspect homicide due to domestic violence or child abuse.
Removed the specific requirement for law enforcement to submit a written request for an autopsy in domestic violence or child abuse cases, replacing it with a directive to request further post-mortem examinations under specific homicide suspicions.
Broadened the definition of responsible investigators from 'law enforcement' to 'specified investigators of deaths of decedents' to ensure a wider range of officials are covered by the new protocols.
Added a prohibition on releasing a decedent's body until collaborative consultation regarding appropriate actions has occurred and recommended actions are completed.