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SB 1480

Autopsies - As introduced, requires the expenses of an autopsy ordered by a district attorney general to be paid by this state. - Amends TCA Title 38, Chapter 7.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Lowe

Tennessee would assume full state-level funding for all autopsies ordered by district attorneys, shifting costs from local jurisdictions to the state budget.

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/20/2026
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Bill Summary · SB 1480

Legislative bill overview

SB 1480 mandates that Tennessee state government pay for autopsy expenses when a district attorney general orders one, rather than leaving those costs to be absorbed by local jurisdictions or other parties. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 38, Chapter 7, which governs medical examiner and coroner procedures.

Why is this important

Autopsy costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per case, creating significant budget pressures for district attorneys' offices and local governments, particularly in rural areas. This change would shift financial responsibility to the state level, potentially affecting how district attorneys prioritize autopsy requests and how state budgets are allocated across criminal justice functions.

Potential points of contention

  • State budget impact: Shifting autopsy costs to state funding increases state expenditures without identifying a funding source, potentially requiring cuts elsewhere or tax increases
  • Local government relief vs. state burden: While this reduces local DA office expenses, it concentrates costs at the state level where resources may be more limited
  • Scope and usage: The bill could incentivize increased autopsy requests if cost is no longer a limiting factor for local prosecutors, affecting medical examiner workloads and state spending predictability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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