(JUNEAU) - Representative Lesil McGuire (R-Anchorage) has introduced legislation that would require the Commissioner of Health and Social Services to appoint both a State Medical Examiner and a Deputy Medical Examiner to share the extensive workload. HB 225 passed out of the House Health Education and Social Services Committee earlier today.

In 2004, there were nearly 1,100 cases filed with the State of Alaska's Medical Examiner's Office. Each of these cases may require actions such as autopsies, administrative duties and legal responsibilities, such as testifying in court.

"The State Medical Examiner is a critical position that comes with tremendous responsibility, not only to the families and friends of the victim, but also to the state of Alaska. The fact that there is such as large caseload for only one medical examiner has become a growing concern for policy makers, law enforcement officials and the community," Representative McGuire said.

HB 225 would change the wording of the current law to state that the Commission of Health and Social Services "shall" appoint a Deputy Medical Examiner. Current law states that the Commissioner "may" make such an appointment.

Representative McGuire went on to say, "By hiring a Deputy Medical Examiner, we are ensuring that each and every case before the State Medical Examiner's Office will receive the attention it deserves."

HB 225 will now be considered by the House Finance Committee.

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