reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1408. Possession of evidence and property

§ 5–1408. Possession of evidence and property.
(a) At the scene of any death subject to investigation under § 5-1405(b), the medical examiner, a medicolegal investigator, or a law enforcement officer shall take possession of any objects or articles which, in the opinion of the medical examiner, medicolegal investigator, or law enforcement officer, may be useful in establishing the cause and manner of death or the identity of the decedent and shall hold them as evidence. The Mayor shall issue regulations concerning the evidence in the possession of the CME and the transfer of that evidence to law enforcement agencies or the United States Attorney’s Office. The regulations shall include requirements on the length of time evidence shall be preserved by the CME, and shall require that toxicology and histology specimens be preserved for periods of time consistent with the accreditation requirements of the National Association of Medical Examiners.
(b) A law enforcement officer, a medical examiner, or a medicolegal investigator may take possession of all property of value found on or in the custody of the decedent. If possession is taken of the property, the law enforcement officer, medical examiner, or medicolegal investigator shall make an exact inventory of the property and deliver it to the Property Clerk of the Metropolitan Police Department; except, that the CME may instead transfer the property to the person with the right to control the disposition of the remains of the decedent under § 3-413 or to the funeral services establishment that has or takes possession of the remains of the decedent. The CME may dispose of, in any reasonable manner, property of no apparent value or property deemed to be a hazard to health or safety. The Mayor shall issue regulations concerning the transfer of any such property from the OCME.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2909, 47 DCR 6308; July 15, 2004, D.C. Law 15-174, § 201(a), 51 DCR 3677; Nov. 13, 2021, D.C. Law 24-45, § 3072(h), 68 DCR 010163; Feb. 23, 2023, D.C. Law 24-241, § 2(a), 70 DCR 232.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2305.
Effect of Amendments
D.C. Law 15-174 added the last sentence to subsec. (a).
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 3072(h) of Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2021 (D.C. Act 24-159, Aug. 23, 2021, 68 DCR 008602).
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2909 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
Delegation of Authority
Delegation of Authority Pursuant to Title XXIX of D.C. Law 13-172, the “Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Act of 2000” Creating the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, see Mayor’s Order 2001-04, January 5, 2001 ( 48 DCR 938).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1409. Examination; further investigation and autopsy

§ 5–1409. Examination; further investigation and autopsy.
(a) If, in the opinion of the CME, the cause and manner of death are established with a reasonable medical certainty, the CME shall complete a report of the medical examination of the decedent.
(b) If, in the opinion of the CME, or the United States Attorney, further investigation as to the cause or manner of death is required or the public interest so requires, a medical examiner shall either perform, or the CME shall arrange for a qualified pathologist to perform, an autopsy on the body of the decedent and to retain tissues and biological specimens deemed necessary to an investigation. No consent of the next of kin shall be required for an autopsy to be performed under this section.
(c) The medical examiner performing the autopsy shall make a complete record of the findings and conclusions of any autopsy and shall prepare a report thereon.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2910, 47 DCR 6308.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2306.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2910 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1410. Autopsy by pathologist other than a medical examiner

§ 5–1410. Autopsy by pathologist other than a medical examiner.
(a) If an autopsy is performed by a pathologist other than a medical examiner by request of the CME, the pathologist shall furnish to the CME, a complete record of the findings and conclusions of the autopsy. The CME, or assigned medical examiner, shall thereupon prepare a report, indicating the name of the pathologist performing the autopsy, the pathologist’s findings and conclusions, and the CME’s, or assigned medical examiner’s, own comments, if appropriate.
(b) A pathologist other than a medical examiner who performs an autopsy at the request of the CME shall be compensated in accordance with a fee rate established by the Mayor by regulation.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2911, 47 DCR 6308.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2307.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2911 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
Delegation of Authority
Delegation of Authority Pursuant to Title XXIX of D.C. Law 13-172, the “Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Act of 2000” Creating the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, see Mayor’s Order 2001-04, January 5, 2001 ( 48 DCR 938).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1411. Delivery of body; expenses

§ 5–1411. Delivery of body; expenses.
(a) Following investigation or autopsy, the CME shall release the body of the decedent to the person having the right to the body for the purpose of burial or other disposition pursuant to law. If after a reasonable time, established by regulation by the Mayor, no authorized person claims the body of the decedent, the CME shall dispose of the body in accordance with the law.
(b) Expenses of transportation of bodies and autopsies performed pursuant to this chapter shall be borne by the District.
(c) Only the CME shall dispose unclaimed bodies in the District without of next of kin or other means of disposition. The Mayor shall prescribe fees and regulations for the storage and disposal of unclaimed bodies.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2912, 47 DCR 6308; Nov. 13, 2021, D.C. Law 24-45, § 3072(i), 68 DCR 010163.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2308.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 3072(i) of Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2021 (D.C. Act 24-159, Aug. 23, 2021, 68 DCR 008602).
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2912 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
Delegation of Authority
Delegation of Authority Pursuant to Title XXIX of D.C. Law 13-172, the “Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Act of 2000” Creating the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, see Mayor’s Order 2001-04, January 5, 2001 ( 48 DCR 938).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1413. Records as evidence

§ 5–1413. Records as evidence.
The records maintained pursuant to § 5-1412, or reproductions thereof certified by the CME, are admissible as evidence in any court in the District; except that, statements made by witnesses or other persons and conclusions upon nonmedical matters are not admissible.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2914, 47 DCR 6308.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2310.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2914 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1414. Autopsies performed under court order

§ 5–1414. Autopsies performed under court order.
In the case of unexplained, sudden, violent, or suspicious death, when the body is buried without investigation, or there has been an inadequate investigation, the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, on the United States Attorney's own motion, or at the request of a medical examiner, the Metropolitan Police Department, or another law enforcement agency, may petition the appropriate court for an order to conduct an inquiry. The court may order the body exhumed and an autopsy performed. In such cases, records and reports shall be filed as if the autopsy were performed prior to burial; except that, a copy of the report shall be furnished directly to the court.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2915, 47 DCR 6308; Nov. 13, 2021, D.C. Law 24-45, § 3072(j), 68 DCR 010163.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2311.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) amendment of this section, see § 3072(j) of Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2021 (D.C. Act 24-159, Aug. 23, 2021, 68 DCR 008602).
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2915 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1415. Tissue transplants. [Repealed]

§ 5–1415. Tissue transplants. [Repealed]
Repealed.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2916, 47 DCR 6308; Apr. 15, 2008, D.C. Law 17-145, § 30(b), 55 DCR 2532.)
Prior Codifications
1981 Ed., § 11-2312.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2916 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1416. Personnel, records, functions, and authority transferred

§ 5–1416. Personnel, records, functions, and authority transferred.
All positions, personnel, property, records, and unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations, and other funds available or to be available to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and all the functions assigned and authority delegated to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are hereby transferred to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner established pursuant to § 5-1402:
(1) Commissioner’s Order 70-83, effective March 6, 1970, vesting the Director of the Department of Human Resources with authority over the Chief Medical Examiner and the operations of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner under Public Law 91-358;
(2) Commissioner’s Order 71-16, effective January 26, 1971, establishing the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, headed by the Chief Medical Examiner, in the Department of Human Resources with the functions set forth in Public Law 91-358;
(3) Part IV(B)(2) of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1979, effective February 21, 1980, vesting the Commissioner of Public Health, Department of Human Services, with administrative authority over the technical programs and services for medical investigation of all deaths, except clearly natural deaths under Public Law 91-358 and Commissioner’s Order 71-16, as amended;
(4) Part III(K) of Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1986, effective January 3, 1987, vesting the Director of the Department of Human Services with responsibility for medically investigating and reporting on known or suspected homicides, suicides, medically unattended or accidental deaths and deaths which might threaten public health and safety;
(5) Mayor’s Order 89-62, Establishment of Commission on the Medical Examiner’s Office, effective March 28, 1989;
(6) Part IV(B)(2) of Reorganization Plan 4 of 1996, Establishment of the District of Columbia Department of Health, placing the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner under the supervision of the Director of the Department of Health; and
(7) Department of Health Organization Order No. 15, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, dated May 30, 1997, establishing the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in the Department of Health.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2917, 47 DCR 6308.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition section, see § 2917 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1417. Regulations and fees

§ 5–1417. Regulations and fees.
(a) The Mayor shall promulgate proposed regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter. The proposed regulations shall be submitted to the Council for a 45-day period of review, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, legal holidays, and days of Council recess. If the Council does not approve or disapprove the regulations, in whole or in part, by resolution within the 45-day review period, the proposed rules shall be deemed approved.
(b) The Mayor is authorized to establish fees and rates required by this chapter.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2918, 47 DCR 6308.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 5-1412.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 2918 of the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2000 (D.C. Act 13-438, October 20, 2000, 47 DCR 8740).
Delegation of Authority
Delegation of Authority Pursuant to Title XXIX of D.C. Law 13-172, the “Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Support Act of 2000” Creating the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, see Mayor’s Order 2001-04, January 5, 2001 ( 48 DCR 938).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1418. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Management Fund

§ 5–1418. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Management Fund.
Repealed.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2918a; as added Oct. 20, 2005, D.C. Law 16-33, § 3002, 52 DCR 7503; Sept. 14, 2011, D.C. Law 19-21, § 9051, 58 DCR 6226.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 day) addition, see § 3002 of Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2005 (D.C. Act 16-168, July 26, 2005, 52 DCR 7667).
For temporary (90 day) addition of section, see § 202 of Comprehensive Impaired Driving and Alcohol Testing Program Emergency Amendment Act of 2012 (D.C. Act 19-429, July 30, 2012, 59 DCR 9387).
For temporary addition of D.C. Law 13-172, § 2918b, concerning blood and urine testing for the District’s impaired driving program, see § 202 of the Comprehensive Impaired Driving and Alcohol Testing Program Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2012 (D.C Act 19-508, October 26, 2012, 59 DCR 13325).
Short Title
Short title of subtitle A of title III of Law 16-33: Section 3001 of D.C. Law 16-33 provided that subtitle A of title III of the act may be cited as the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Management Fund Amendment Act of 2005.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1419. Impaired driving program; chemical testing

§ 5–1419. Impaired driving program; chemical testing.
(a) The CME shall be responsible for ensuring the accuracy of blood and urine testing for the District’s impaired driving program. The CME may test or authorize the testing of specimens, as defined by § 50-1901(18), for the purposes of determining if specimens contain alcohol or a drug.
(b) Until October 1, 2012, and after October 1, 2012 if authorized under § 5-1501.07(d), the CME shall be responsible for testing and certifying the accuracy of any District instrument utilized by District law enforcement personnel to test the alcohol content of breath. A District breath-test instrument shall only be used by District law enforcement personnel if it has been certified by the CME to be accurate. Certification of the accuracy of each breath test instrument must occur at least once every 180 days.
(c) In addition to the requirements under subsection (a) of this section, the CME shall:
(1) Develop a program for District law enforcement personnel to become trained and certified as a breath test instrument operator;
(2) Develop policies and procedures for the operation and maintenance of all breath test instruments utilized by District law enforcement personnel; and
(3) Develop policies and procedures for the maintenance of records demonstrating that the breath test instruments utilized by District law enforcement personnel are in proper operating condition.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 2918b; as added Apr. 27, 2013, D.C. Law 19-266, § 202, 59 DCR 12957; Apr. 20, 2013, D.C. Law 19-260, § 2, 60 DCR 1292.)
Effect of Amendments
The 2013 amendment by D.C. Law 19-260 substituted “180 days” for “3 months” in (b).
The 2013 amendment by D.C. Law 19-266 added this section.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) addition of this section, see § 202 of the Comprehensive Impaired Driving and Alcohol Testing Program Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2013 (D.C. Act 20-3, January 29, 2013, 60 DCR 2762, 20 DCSTAT 410).
For temporary (90 days) addition of this section, see § 202 of the Comprehensive Impaired Driving and Alcohol Testing Program Second Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2013 (D.C. Act 20-51, April 17, 2013, 60 DCR 6344, 20 DCSTAT 1360).
Editor's Notes
Section 5 of D.C. Law 19-260 provided that the Act shall apply as of the effective date of the Comprehensive Impaired Driving and Alcohol Breath Testing Program Amendment Act of 2012, signed by the Mayor on October 24, 2012 (D.C. Act 19-489; 59 DCR 12957), which became D.C. Law 19-266, effective April 27, 2013.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14 - Chief Medical Examiner › § 5–1420. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Fund

§ 5–1420. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Fund.
(a) There is established as a special fund the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner Fund ("Fund"), which shall be administered by the Mayor in accordance with subsection (c) of this section.
(b) All funds from fees received by OCME for services provided pursuant to § 5-1404(a-1) shall be deposited in the Fund.
(c) Money in the Fund shall be used to support any personnel and non-personnel expenses associated with District fatality reviews, in addition to other agency expenses.
(d)(1) The money deposited into the Fund but not expended in a fiscal year shall not revert to the unassigned fund balance of the General Fund of the District of Columbia at the end of a fiscal year, or at any other time.
(2) Subject to authorization in an approved budget and financial plan, any funds appropriated in the Fund shall be continually available without regard to fiscal year limitation.
(Oct. 19, 2000, D.C. Law 13-172, § 1918c; as added Nov. 13, 2021, D.C. Law 24-45, § 3072(k), 68 DCR 010163.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3072(k) of Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2021 (D.C. Act 24-159, Aug. 23, 2021, 68 DCR 008602).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14A - Fatality Review Committee › § 5–1431.04. Subpoena power

§ 5–1431.04. Subpoena power.
(a) When necessary for the discharge of its duties, the Committee may issue subpoenas to compel witnesses to appear, testify, or produce books, papers, correspondence, memoranda, documents, medical records, or other relevant records.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, subpoenas shall be served personally upon the witness or the witness's designated agent, not fewer than 5 business days before the date the witness must appear or the documents must be produced, by a special process server, at least 18 years of age, engaged by the Committee.
(c) If, after a reasonable attempt, personal service on a witness or a witness's agent cannot be effected, a special process server identified in subsection (b) of this section may serve a subpoena by registered or certified mail not fewer than 8 business days before the date the witness must appear, testify, or produce documents.
(d) If a witness who has been personally summoned neglects or refuses to obey the subpoena issued pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the Committee may report that fact to the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, and the court may compel obedience to the subpoena to the same extent as witnesses may be compelled to obey the subpoenas of the court.
(Oct. 30, 2018, D.C. Law 22-168, § 3045, 65 DCR 9388.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3045 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-458, Oct. 3, 2018, 65 DCR 11212).
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3045 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-434, July 30, 2018, 65 DCR 8200).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14A - Fatality Review Committee › § 5–1431.05. Confidentiality of information and proceedings

§ 5–1431.05. Confidentiality of information and proceedings.
(a) Except as provided in this section, information and records obtained or created by the Committee are confidential and not subject to civil discovery or to disclosure pursuant to subchapter II of Chapter 5 of Title 2.
(b) Information and records presented to the Committee for review shall not be immune from subpoena, discovery, or prohibited from being introduced into evidence solely because they were presented to or reviewed by the Committee if the information and records have been obtained through other sources.
(c) Information required to be reported under § 4-1321.02 or § 4-1321.03 shall be disclosed by the Committee to the Child and Family Services Agency.
(d) A person other than a Committee member who appears before or participates in the Committee's review of homicides or suicides shall sign a confidentiality agreement acknowledging that any information provided to the Committee is confidential; provided, that any such confidentiality agreement shall account for situations where disclosure is necessary for the person to comply with a request for information from the Committee.
(e) Committee meetings shall be subject to subchapter IV of Chapter 5 of Title 2, except that Committee meetings shall be closed when the Committee is discussing cases of individual homicides or suicides or where the identity of any person, other than a person who has expressly consented to be identified, can be ascertained.
(f) Information identifying a victim of homicide or suicide, the victim's family members, or the alleged or suspected perpetrator of the homicide or suicide shall not be disclosed by the Committee in any report that is available to the public.
(g) The Committee may disclose information to other entities when the Committee determines that disclosure is necessary to carry out the Committee's purpose and duties. The Committee may disclose Committee records to another District fatality review committee or board at the request of the District fatality review committee or board, if the other District fatality review committee or board is governed by confidentiality that is substantially similar to the confidentiality by which the Committee is governed.
(h) This section shall not be construed to prohibit a person from:
(1) Disclosing information that the person obtained independently of the Committee; or
(2) Disclosing information that is already public.
(Oct. 30, 2018, D.C. Law 22-168, § 3046, 65 DCR 9388.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3046 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-458, Oct. 3, 2018, 65 DCR 11212).
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3046 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-434, July 30, 2018, 65 DCR 8200).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14A - Fatality Review Committee › § 5–1431.06. Immunity from liability for providing information to the Committee

§ 5–1431.06. Immunity from liability for providing information to the Committee.
(a) Any person, hospital, or institution participating in good faith in providing information to the Committee pursuant to this chapter shall have immunity from administrative, civil, or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed with respect to the disclosure of the information. In any such proceeding, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the person, hospital, or institution that provided information to the Committee acted in good faith.
(b) If acting in good faith, without malice, and within the parameters of the operating rules and procedures established by this chapter, members of the Committee are immune from civil liability for an activity related to reviews of homicides or suicides, as that term is defined in § 5-1431.01(e).
(Oct. 30, 2018, D.C. Law 22-168, § 3047, 65 DCR 9388.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3047 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-458, Oct. 3, 2018, 65 DCR 11212).
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3047 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-434, July 30, 2018, 65 DCR 8200).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14A - Fatality Review Committee › § 5–1431.07. Unlawful disclosure of information; penalties

§ 5–1431.07. Unlawful disclosure of information; penalties.
Whoever knowingly discloses, receives, makes use of, or permits the use of information concerning a victim or other person in violation of this chapter shall be subject to a civil fine of not more than $1,000. Violations of this chapter shall be prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General or the Attorney General's designee in the name of the District of Columbia.
(Oct. 30, 2018, D.C. Law 22-168, § 3048, 65 DCR 9388.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3048 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-458, Oct. 3, 2018, 65 DCR 11212).
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3048 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-434, July 30, 2018, 65 DCR 8200).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 14A - Fatality Review Committee › § 5–1431.08. Rules

§ 5–1431.08. Rules.
The Mayor, pursuant to subchapter I of Chapter 5 of Title 2, may issue rules to implement the provisions of this chapter.
(Oct. 30, 2018, D.C. Law 22-168, § 3049, 65 DCR 9388.)
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3049 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-458, Oct. 3, 2018, 65 DCR 11212).
For temporary (90 days) creation of this section, see § 3049 of Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2018 (D.C. Act 22-434, July 30, 2018, 65 DCR 8200).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.01. Definitions

§ 5–1501.01. Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
(1) “Board” means the Science Advisory Board established by § 5-1501.11.
(2) “Department” means the Department of Forensic Sciences established by § 5-1501.02.
(3) “Director” means the Director of the Department of Forensic Sciences.
(4) “Forensic science services” means forensic science research, analysis, and related services, including the examination of evidence, the interpretation of results, and the provision of expert testimony, such as for the purposes of a criminal investigation or civil action.
(4A) Not Funded.
(5) “MPD” means the Metropolitan Police Department.
(6) "Public health laboratory services" means monitoring and detecting health threats, including:
(A) Testing samples in a wide variety of materials for toxins, infectious organisms, and other threats to public health;
(B) Clinical diagnostic testing;
(C) Disease surveillance;
(D) Emergency response support;
(E) Applied research; and
(F) Laboratory training.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 2, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(a), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(a), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(a) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.02. Establishment of the Department of Forensic Sciences

§ 5–1501.02. Establishment of the Department of Forensic Sciences.
(a) There is established as a subordinate agency in the executive branch of the government of the District of Columbia, the Department of Forensic Sciences.
(a-1) Not Funded.
(b) The mission of the Department shall be to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services and public health laboratory services with:
(1) The use of best practices and best available technology;
(2) A focus on the delivery of unbiased science and an emphasis on promoting transparency in operations; and
(2A) Not Funded.
(3) The goal of enhancing public safety and the fair and balanced administration of justice.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 3, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(b), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(b), 70 DCR 937.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 5-1501.01.
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(b) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.03. Director; appointment, qualifications, compensation, term

§ 5–1501.03. Director; appointment, qualifications, compensation, term.
(a) The Department shall be headed by a Director who shall be appointed by the Mayor, with the advice and consent of the Council, pursuant to § 1-523.01(a).
(b) The Director shall be knowledgeable about forensic science services and experienced in the rigors of scientific analysis. The Director shall have:
(1) Graduated from an accredited college or university with a masters or doctoral degree in an applicable area of science;
(2) Demonstrated training and experience in scientific research and methodology;
(3) Demonstrated management and administrative skills;
(4) Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of forensic sciences;
(5) A minimum of 6 years experience in scientific research, forensic sciences, or a combination thereof; and
(6) A minimum of 4 years experience in directing or supervising both scientific and administrative staff in a forensic science, medical, or research setting.
(c) The Mayor shall fix the compensation of the Director pursuant to subchapter X-A of Chapter 6 of Title 1 [§ 1-610.51 et seq.].
(d) The Director shall be appointed for a 4-year term.
(e) If a vacancy in the position of the Director occurs as a consequence of any reason, the Mayor shall appoint a successor for a new term, in the same manner provided by this chapter.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 4, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(c), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(c) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.03a. Director; appointment, qualifications, compensation, and term. [Not Funded]

§ 5–1501.03a. Director; appointment, qualifications, compensation, and term. [Not Funded]
Not Funded.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 4a; as added Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(d), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(d) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.04a. Annual budget for the Forensic Sciences and Public Health Laboratory. [Not Funded]

§ 5–1501.04a. Annual budget for the Forensic Sciences and Public Health Laboratory. [Not Funded]
Not Funded.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 5a; as added Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(f), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(f) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.05. Personnel

§ 5–1501.05. Personnel.
(a)(1) In addition to a Director, the Department shall have a Deputy Director, and other professional and support personnel as necessary and appropriate to carry out the Department's mission.
(2) The Deputy Director shall have a masters or doctoral degree in an applicable area of science or forensic analysis and a minimum of 2 years experience in forensic sciences.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 6, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(d), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(g), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(g) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.05a. Chief Forensic Sciences Officer; appointment, qualifications, duties, and other personnel. [Not Funded]

§ 5–1501.05a. Chief Forensic Sciences Officer; appointment, qualifications, duties, and other personnel. [Not Funded]
Not Funded.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 6a; as added Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(h), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(h) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.06a. Department Laboratory Fund

§ 5–1501.06a. Department Laboratory Fund.
(a) There is established as a special fund the Department of Forensic Sciences Laboratory Fund ("Fund"), which shall be administered by the Director in accordance with subsection (c) of this section.
(b) Revenue from the following sources shall be deposited in the Fund:
(1) Annual revenue transferred from the United States Department of Homeland Security for the BioWatch program; and
(2) Fees collected for forensic science services and public health laboratory services provided by the Department.
(c) Money in the Fund shall only be used to fund the expenses of the Department's laboratories, including the funding of forensic science services, materials, non-grant funded research, equipment, laboratory staff, and trainings.
(d)(1) The money deposited into the Fund shall not revert to the unrestricted fund balance of the General Fund of the District of Columbia at the end of a fiscal year, or at any other time.
(2) Subject to authorization in an approved budget and financial plan, any funds appropriated in the Fund shall be continually available without regard to fiscal year limitation.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 7a; as added Dec. 13, 2017, D.C. Law 22-33, § 3002(a), 64 DCR 7652; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(f), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(j), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(j) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
Emergency Legislation
For temporary (90-day) creation of this section, see § 3002(a) of the Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Congressional Review Emergency Act of 2017, effective October 24, 2017 (D.C. Act 22-167; 64 DCR 10802).
For temporary (90-day) creation of this section, see § 3002(a) of the Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Support Emergency Act of 2017, effective July 20, 2017 (D.C. Act 22-104; 64 DCR 7032).
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.09. Reexamination by independent experts

§ 5–1501.09. Reexamination by independent experts.
The facilities, equipment, or supplies of the Department shall not be used by an independent expert employed by the accused or his or her attorney for any reexamination of materials previously examined by the Department.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 10, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(m), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(m) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.10. Allegations of negligence, misconduct, or misidentification or other testing error

§ 5–1501.10. Allegations of negligence, misconduct, or misidentification or other testing error.
(a) Any allegation of professional negligence, misconduct, or misidentification or other testing error that occurs in the provision of forensic science services or public health laboratory services at the Department shall be:
(1) Reported immediately to the Board; and
(2) Investigated promptly by the Director, in accordance with the Department’s quality assurance program and the requirements of the Department’s accreditation.
(b)(1) An allegation that the Director determines is credible and substantial and that may substantially affect the integrity of the results of forensic analysis conducted by the Department shall be investigated by an evaluator, external to the Department, who shall be selected by the Director. The investigation shall be initiated within 30 business days after the Director becomes aware of the allegation.
(2) An investigation pursuant to this subsection shall be in addition to the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(c) An investigation pursuant to subsection (a) or (b) of this section shall culminate in the preparation of a written report that shall identify and describe:
(1) The alleged negligence, misconduct, or misidentification or other testing error;
(2) Whether the negligence, misconduct, or misidentification or other testing error occurred; and
(3) All corrective actions required of the Department.
(d) All investigative reports prepared in accordance with this section shall be submitted promptly to the Board.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 11, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(g), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(n), 70 DCR 937.)
Section References
This section is referenced in § 5-1501.06.
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(n) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.12. Functions of the Board

§ 5–1501.12. Functions of the Board.
The Board shall:
(1) Review all reports of allegations of professional negligence, misconduct, or misidentification or other testing error that occurred in the provision of forensic science services or public health laboratory services at the Department;
(2) Periodically review the program standards and protocols related to Department operations;
(3) At least once every 3 years, conduct a review of relevant scientific literature to determine whether modification of any of the manuals and procedures referenced in § 5-1501.04(b) is desirable;
(4) Review and make recommendations as necessary to the Director concerning:
(A) The quality and timeliness of the forensic science services or public health laboratory services at the Department;
(B) New scientific programs, protocols, methods of testing, and forensic technologies;
(C) Plans for:
(i) The implementation of new programs;
(ii) Sustaining existing programs;
(iii) Improving programs, where possible; and
(iv) The elimination of programs no longer needed;
(D) Qualification standards for analyst positions within the Department; and
(E) Any other matters related to the scientific operation of the Department; and
(4A) Not Funded.
(4B) Not Funded.
(5) Advise the Director or the Mayor and Council, when it considers appropriate, on matters relating to the Department, forensic sciences services, or public health laboratory services.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 13, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(h)(1), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(p), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(p)(5) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.12a. Process for addressing allegations of negligence, misconduct, misidentification, or other testing errors. [Not Funded]

§ 5–1501.12a. Process for addressing allegations of negligence, misconduct, misidentification, or other testing errors. [Not Funded]
Not Funded.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 13a; as added Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(q), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the creation of this section by § 2(q) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.13. Stakeholder Council

§ 5–1501.13. Stakeholder Council.
(a) There is established a Stakeholder Council, which shall consist of the following members:
(1) The Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice;
(2) The Chief of MPD;
(3) The Chief Medical Examiner;
(4) The Attorney General;
(5) The United States Attorney for the District of Columbia;
(6) The Director of the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia;
(7) The Federal Public Defender for the District of Columbia;
(8) The Director of the Department of Health;
(9) The Chief of the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department;
(10) The Director of the Department; and
(10) Not Funded.
(11) The head of any other government agency that regularly utilizes the forensic science services or public health laboratory services of the Department.
(12) Not Funded.
(13) Not Funded.
(b) The chairperson of the Judiciary Committee of the Council of the District of Columbia shall be an ex officio, non-voting member of the Stakeholder Council.
(c) The members listed in subsection (a) of this section shall not be represented by a designee.
(d) The chairperson of the Stakeholder Council shall be the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice. In his or her absence, the Attorney General shall be the chairperson.
(d) Not Funded.
(e) The Stakeholder Council shall meet no fewer than 2 times per year. The chairperson shall fix the time and place of the meetings.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 14, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(i), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(r), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(r) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.
2023 District of Columbia Code › Title 5 - Police, Firefighters, Medical Examiner, and Forensic Sciences › Chapter 15 - Department of Forensic Sciences › § 5–1501.14. Functions of the Stakeholder Council

§ 5–1501.14. Functions of the Stakeholder Council.
The Stakeholder Council shall:
(1) Identify issues or concerns regarding:
(A) The Department’s delivery of forensic science services or public health laboratory services to agencies, including the timeliness of service; and
(B) The general effectiveness of the Department in the furtherance of its agency mission; and
(2) Advise the Mayor and the Council, as it considers necessary, on matters relating to the Department, forensic sciences services, or public health laboratory services.
(Aug. 17, 2011, D.C. Law 19-18, § 15, 58 DCR 5403; Apr. 27, 2021, D.C. Law 23-274, § 501(j), 68 DCR 001034; Apr. 21, 2023, D.C. Law 24-348, § 2(s), 70 DCR 937.)
Applicability
Applicability of D.C. Law 24-348: § 10 of D.C. Law 24-348 provided that the change made to this section by § 2(s) of D.C. Law 24-348 is subject to the inclusion of the law’s fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan. Therefore that amendment has not been implemented.