WASHINGTON — State lawmakers in Washington are pushing for changes in how coroners and medical examiners are selected. According to a report, the proposed bill would mandate that these positions be appointed rather than elected, aiming to save taxpayer dollars and boost accountability.
Currently, only counties with populations under 40,000 can appoint a coroner, and those with populations over 250,000 can appoint a medical examiner. The new proposal seeks to make appointments mandatory for all counties in Washington.
Additionally, the proposal includes a requirement for appointees to complete state-developed forensic investigation training within 12 months.
