House Passes Evankovich Bill that Delays Release of Information in Death Investigations
‘Noah’s Law’ aims to spare families from further anguish
HARRISBURG – Legislation sponsored by Rep. Eli Evankovich (R-Westmoreland/Allegheny) that would delay the release of information in death investigations, sparing family members of the decedent from further anguish, was passed unanimously by the House of Representatives on Monday.
House Bill 297 will next be considered by the Senate.
Evankovich’s bill is also known as ‘Noah’s Law,” after Noah Cornuet, 16, of Lower Burrell, who died last year. Noah’s parents, Raymond and Pamela Cornuet Jr., were on the House floor as Evankovich’s guests, to witness the vote.
“The issue came to light last summer in my district after Noah died suddenly during football practice,” said Evankovich. “An autopsy was performed to determine the cause of death, as required by law. I was informed by the family that Noah’s autopsy results were immediately released to the public, causing them unimaginable grief and hardship. Our bill would rectify an oversight in current law that can cause great anguish for families across Pennsylvania who have tragically lost a loved one.”
House Bill 297 would prohibit a coroner or medical examiner from releasing to the public the name of the deceased or the cause of death until either the notification of the next of kin is confirmed, or until 72 hours have elapsed, whichever comes first. However, the information may be released at any time to avert a public health emergency.
In addition, a coroner or medical examiner may release the information if the decedent’s identity or next of kin is unknown in order to locate the family members. A coroner or medical examiner who acted in good faith also would not be subject to criminal or civil liability.
For more information on Evankovich and his legislative priorities, please visit
www.RepEvankovich.com or
www.Facebook.com/RepEvankovich.
Representative Eli Evankovich
54th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andy Briggs
717.260.6474
abriggs@pahousegop.com
RepEvankovich.com /
Facebook.com/RepEvankovich