Bill > HB4064

This bill adds a new subchapter to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure specifically addressing autopsies for individuals with a history of epilepsy. Under the proposed legislation, a medical examiner or justice of the peace will be authorized to order an autopsy for a deceased person who has a documented medical history of epilepsy, with the primary goal of determining the cause of death. If the autopsy determines that the individual's death was related to epilepsy, the person performing the autopsy will have two additional options: they can report the information to the North American SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) Registry and can list epilepsy as a cause of death on the individual's death certificate. The bill defines "epilepsy" by referencing its definition in Section 40.001 of the Health and Safety Code and is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to improve understanding and documentation of epilepsy-related deaths by providing a formal mechanism for investigating and recording such incidents.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4064