ME LD2108

Establishes the Suicide Mortality Review Panel within the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention to conduct retrospective case reviews of confirmed suicides, suspected suicides, and undetermined deaths where suicide cannot be ruled out

Panel members appointed by the CDC Director for 3-year terms include healthcare providers, social service providers, public health officials, veterans service experts, youth service providers, law enforcement, and first responders; panel must meet at least 4 times annually

Panel coordinator gains access to death certificates, autopsy reports, medical records, military service information, law enforcement records, social services records, and National Violent Death Reporting System data to conduct preliminary reviews

First contact with next of kin must wait at least 4 months after death, include invitation for voluntary interview, and provide information on available bereavement services

Annual report due January 2nd (beginning 2027) to the Governor, Commissioner, and Legislature must include factors contributing to suicide mortality, system of care strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations for reducing suicide rates through policy, training, and procedural changes