Bill > HB290

This bill modifies Maryland's laws regarding the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner's records and disclosure of autopsy information. It introduces new definitions for "autopsy report" and "final autopsy diagnosis", and establishes a new investigative database for medical examiners' cases. The bill clarifies that electronic data and records in the Chief Medical Examiner's investigative database are not considered public records and are exempt from public inspection, with the exception of the final autopsy diagnosis. The legislation requires the Office to maintain comprehensive records for each medical examiner's case, including details such as the deceased's name, location of the body, date, cause, and manner of death. It also specifies that medical examiner records can be used as competent evidence in court, and allows the office to charge reasonable fees for reports. The changes aim to protect sensitive investigative information while still providing a mechanism for accessing key autopsy findings. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to implement the new requirements.

Health and Social Services

Health and Government Operations (H)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0290?ys=2025RS