MS HB1497

Amends Mississippi Code Section 41-61-61 to make photographs and video/audio recordings of autopsies confidential, with limited exceptions.

Allows surviving spouses to view and copy autopsy records; if no surviving spouse, surviving parents have access; if no surviving spouse or parents, adult children have access.

Permits government entities and agencies to access autopsy records in writing for official duties, and allows courts to order disclosure upon showing good cause with consideration of public interest, privacy intrusion, and availability of similar information.

Makes willful violation of confidentiality provisions a felony punishable by up to one year in state prison and/or $10,000 fine; violation of court orders also punishable as a felony with same penalties.

Exempts criminal and administrative proceedings from confidentiality requirements, though courts may still restrict disclosure in those proceedings; does not prevent multidisciplinary child protection team disclosures or governmental advocate sharing of victim information.