DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 539 Original 2016 Regular Session Hazel
Abstract: Authorizes the donation of tissue and biological samples for the purpose of training a dog
to search for human remains.
Present law authorizes the coroner to dispose of an abandoned or unclaimed body.
Proposed law retains present law and authorizes the coroner to retain tissues and biological samples
for tissue from an abandoned or unclaimed body in order to donate the tissue or biological sample
to an individual who is affiliated with an established search and rescue dog organization for the
purpose of training a dog to search for human remains.
Present law defines "anatomical gift", for the purposes of the Anatomical Gift Act, as a donation of
all or part of a human body to take effect after the death of the donor for the purpose of
transplantation, therapy, research, or education.
Proposed law retains present law and adds forensic science education and related training, which
includes any program affiliated with an established search and rescue dog organization for the
purpose of training a dog to search for human remains.
Present law requires a body not embalmed or refrigerated to be buried, cremated, or otherwise
disposed of within 30 hours after death or as soon as possible after its release by the proper
authorities unless the body is held by a licensed hospital or medical school.
Proposed law retains present law and adds an exception for a search and rescue dog organization
operating a forensic science education program.
Effective upon signature of the governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Amends R.S. 17:2351(3) and R.S. 37:848(D)(6); Adds R.S. 9:1551(F) and R.S. 17:2351(32))