CA SB1163

Authorizes agencies performing exhumations of significantly deteriorated bodies to consult with board-certified forensic pathologists and optionally retain anthropologists to ensure dignified handling and crime scene preservation.

Expands autopsy procedures to include computed tomography scans in addition to full body X-rays for unidentified bodies or remains.

Changes dental examination authorization language to allow qualified dentists to be determined by either the coroner or medical examiner (previously coroner only).

Requires retention of appropriate tissue and bone samples for one year after identification is made with no pending challenges, or indefinitely, and prohibits cremation or burial until such samples are retained.

Establishes that if the bill imposes state-mandated costs on local agencies, reimbursement shall be provided pursuant to existing statutory procedures.