Relating to the performance of autopsies on individuals with a history of epilepsy.
Impact
If enacted, SB702 would mandate that a medical examiner or justice of the peace has the authority to order an autopsy for a deceased person with a documented history of epilepsy. The results of these autopsies would not only be crucial for understanding the cause of death but would also contribute to a broader public health objective by enabling the reporting of sudden unexpected deaths related to epilepsy to the North American SUDEP Registry. This requirement aims to enhance data collection regarding epilepsy-related fatalities and to improve awareness of the associated health issues.
Summary
SB702, introduced by Senator Hughes, seeks to amend Chapter 49 of the Code of Criminal Procedure by adding provisions that specifically address the performance of autopsies on individuals with a history of epilepsy. The bill defines 'epilepsy' in accordance with the Health and Safety Code and establishes protocols for medical examiners and justices of the peace when handling cases involving deceased individuals who had previously been diagnosed with epilepsy. This legislative initiative emphasizes the importance of accurately determining the cause of death for such individuals.
Contention
The bill’s language suggests a clear intention to provide clarity and authority in cases involving epilepsy-related deaths. However, it raises questions regarding the potential implications for families and the healthcare system. Opponents may argue that mandatory autopsies could impose an unwarranted emotional burden on families already grieving the loss of a loved one. Furthermore, the technicalities of defining epilepsy and establishing protocols for when to pursue an autopsy could lead to differing interpretations among medical examiners, potentially resulting in inconsistent practices across jurisdictions.
Relating to the authority to regulate sexually oriented performances and to restricting those performances on the premises of a commercial enterprise, on public property, or in the presence of an individual younger than 18 years of age; authorizing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to imposing requirements on the employment of or contracts for certain individuals providing services to individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability, including requiring certain facilities and Medicaid providers to conduct criminal history record information and employee misconduct registry reviews and to suspend the employment or contracts of individuals who engage in reportable conduct; providing administrative penalties.
Relating to creating the criminal offense of misrepresenting medical history to obtain unnecessary medical treatment for a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual.
Relating to law enforcement misconduct and law enforcement interactions with certain detained or arrested individuals and other members of the public, to public entity liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.
Relating to health benefit plan coverage for and prohibitions on gender transitioning procedures and treatments provided to certain individuals; creating a criminal offense.