AR HB1570

Coroners are now required (changed from "may") to collect and secure narcotic drugs from a decedent to prevent illegal or harmful use

Law enforcement officers are granted authority to collect and secure narcotic drugs from a decedent for the same purpose

Scope narrows from all "prescription medication" to specifically "narcotic drugs" as defined in § 20-64-201

Collected narcotic drugs must be disposed of under circuit court order or forwarded to the Department of Health within 30 days for destruction

Exemption preserved for prescription medications in custody of institutional healthcare providers or attending hospice nurses subject to other regulations