Oklahoma Senate Bill SB707

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 3/2/23
• Engrossed: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 4/13/23

Caption

Public health and safety; modifying provisions related to death certificates; requiring Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to make certain disclosure. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB707 would significantly affect the existing statutes related to the issuance of death certificates and the investigations conducted by the Chief Medical Examiner. Key changes include extending the timeframe for filing death certificates and requiring immediate certification upon the conclusion of an investigation. Moreover, the legislation stipulates a good faith effort by the Chief Medical Examiner's Office to communicate the status of autopsy decisions to the family of the deceased, thereby addressing accountability and transparency in the process.

Summary

SB707 aims to modify existing provisions surrounding the issuance and management of death certificates in Oklahoma. It seeks to extend certain time requirements related to filing these certificates and to streamline the processes involved in the investigation of deaths by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Central to the bill's provisions is the removal of redundant language, thereby clarifying procedures and the responsibilities of funeral directors and the Chief Medical Examiner's office. This legislative change is positioned as a means to enhance efficiency in the documentation of deaths and the ensuing investigation processes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB707 appears to be cautiously supportive; stakeholders view it as a necessary update to antiquated processes that will facilitate better communication and more streamlined operations. While proponents recognize the bill's potential to improve the handling of sensitive situations involving death, there are apprehensions regarding the practical implementation of its provisions and whether this will adequately address the needs of grieving families. Concerns have been expressed particularly around ensuring that the necessary support for families navigates through potential bureaucratic hurdles.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB707 include the balance between efficient processing of death certificates and the need for thorough investigations by the medical examiner's office. Some members of the public and advocacy groups may question whether the expedited processes could lead to oversights or inadequate investigations in certain complex cases. There is also discussion around the potential impact on funeral directors' responsibilities, ensuring they have the required support and guidance to fulfill their duties correctly without adding undue stress to grieving families.