SB 1086 would update the chapter for “Inquests Upon Dead Bodies” to reflect a parental right to view a deceased child without a court order. A court order by a prosecuting attorney or the department of Family and Protective Services would be able to prevent a parent from viewing the child’s body if the parent is suspected in the death of their own child.  However, if the application is not filed in a timely manner, the parent may not be prevented from viewing the child’s body.

SB 1086 would restore the individual liberty by protecting parental rights. Currently, parents do not explicitly have the right to view their child’s body before an autopsy has occured. This bill would mandate in a clear manner that the parental right to view a child’s body should only be denied by a court order. We support this bill for preserving the individual liberty of parents.