Introduced

Passed Senate

Passed House

Became law

Adjourned sine die. The bill was pending when the session ended, so it did not pass.

Last action · February 18, 2026

To Committee On Committees (S)

Introduced February 18, 2026

Senate

Adjourned Sine Die

2026 Regular Session

SB208

AN ACT relating to arrest-related deaths.

Amend KRS 72.025 to require a post-mortem examination in deaths that occur during an arrest; create a new section of KRS Chapter 72 to require coroners to notify the Kentucky State Medical Examiner of arrest-related deaths; require publication of an annual public report; amend KRS 72.020 to conform.

Corrections Impact Coroners Corrections and Correctional Facilities, State Deaths Jails and Jailers Peace Officers and Law Enforcement Public Records and Reports Sheriffs

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This bill would require a medical examination any time someone dies during an arrest in Kentucky. It also requires coroners to notify the State Medical Examiner when these deaths occur and calls for a yearly public report on arrest-related deaths. These changes are meant to create a more consistent, transparent process for investigating and tracking deaths that happen in the course of an arrest. Who it may affect: coroners, law enforcement agencies, and members of the public seeking information about deaths that occur during arrests.

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