Bill > SB582

This bill authorizes paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to pronounce death, but only when specifically delegated this authority by a coroner or medical examiner, and it makes a conforming change to existing law regarding who can pronounce death and provides immunity from liability for those acting in good faith. The bill amends Chapter 16 of Title 45 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, which deals with coroners, by adding a provision that allows for this delegation of authority to paramedics and EMTs, who are defined in Code Section 31-11-2. It also revises Code Section 31-10-16, which outlines the criteria for pronouncing death, to include paramedics and EMTs who have received this delegated authority. This change is intended to streamline the process in certain situations, particularly when accidents cause significant traffic disruptions on interstate highways or limited-access roads, as mentioned in Code Section 32-1-3.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73624