A pair of laws that strengthen standards for tissue banks and require county coroners to have certain qualifications for training will go into effect on Aug. 7. 

House Bill 1254 continues the regulation of nontransplant tissue banks in the state until 2033 and grants the director of the Division of Professions and Occupations the authority to create new regulations. The bill also establishes requirements for maintaining records and proper chain of custody for human remains. Additionally, it prohibits funeral homes from owning interests in tissue banks and creates a civil right of action for damages resulting from violations. 

“When someone is grieving, they deserve to know that their loved one is being treated with respect, dignity, and professionalism,” said sponsor Rep. Eliza Hamrick, D-Centennial. “Unfortunately, Colorado has made national headlines over the mistreatment in funeral homes, and with this new law going into effect, we will help prevent these occurrences in the future and honor those we have lost.”

The bill was also sponsored by Rep. Brandi Bradley, R-Roxborough, and Sen. Jim Smallwood, R-Parker. 

House Bill 1100 requires county coroners in counties with a population of over 150,000 to either be certified by and in good standing with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators or the American Board of Pathology. Prior to the bill’s passage, county coroners only needed to be residents of the county they serve and have a high school diploma or college degree. 

“This legislation was long overdue, and will ensure that coroners in large counties have a skill set that matches the critical services those offices provide,” said sponsor Rep. Stephanie Vigil, D-Colorado Springs. “County coroners’ findings have major implications for public health and safety, criminal justice proceedings, and in providing closure for surviving loved ones of the deceased. I’m grateful that El Paso County Coroner Dr. Leon Kelly brought this bill idea to me, so that we can uphold the integrity of this essential public service.”

The bill was also sponsored by Rep. Sonya Jaquez Lewis, D-Lafayette.