Delaware House Bill HB134

Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/2/23
• Engrossed: 5/11/23
• Refer: 5/2/23
• Enrolled: 6/30/23
• Refer: 5/11/23
• Passed: 7/25/23

Caption

An Act To Amend Titles 9, 10, 15, 16 And 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Division Of Forensic Science And The Medical Examiner.

Impact

If enacted, HB134 will modernize the language of the law, ensuring that the responsibilities previously held by the coroner, which was abolished in 1969, are clearly assigned to the Medical Examiners. This change will allow for a clearer interpretation of who is responsible for determining causes of death and will eliminate references to positions that are no longer in effect. As a result, the law can better reflect contemporary practices and enhance the efficacy of forensic science in the state.

Summary

House Bill 134 aims to amend multiple titles of the Delaware Code related to the Division of Forensic Science and the Medical Examiner. The main goal of the bill is to remove outdated references to the term 'coroner' and clarify the roles and responsibilities of the Medical Examiner's office in investigating deaths across the state. The measure serves primarily as a housekeeping initiative, intended to align state laws with the current organizational structure of forensic investigations and medical examination practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB134 appears to be largely framed in a positive light, as it is recognized as a necessary update to the Delaware Code. Stakeholders from the forensic science community and legislative proponents see this as a positive step towards improving clarity and efficiency within the state's public safety and health systems. Overall, there seem to be few, if any, vocal oppositions to the changes presented in the bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise not from the content of the bill itself but concerning the ongoing evolution of forensic death investigation methods and the adequacy of resources allocated to the Medical Examiner's office. While the bill streamlines existing laws, discussions may focus on the effectiveness of the current structure of forensic services in California and addresses related to allocating sufficient resources to fulfill the responsibilities that will be consolidated under the Medical Examiners.