She said information was released about how many times the girls were shot and the location of the wounds. She said the release of such information, especially in high profile cases such as the Weleetka case, has always been an issue.
The bill could be placed back on the legislative agenda as early as next week. Interim Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Eric Duval is reviewing the issue, said Cherokee Ballard, a spokeswoman for the office.
Thomas said current law allows the medical examiner to keep investigative related findings confidential.
“This proposed law is bad public policy,” Thomas said. “It closes the autopsy report, not just investigative findings, which can already be closed.”
He said the autopsy report could remain confidential forever if the case is never solved.
“Government should be accountable to the citizens when a citizen dies,” Thomas said.
Joyner said he realizes the phrase “may impede” is subject to interpretation. He said he is keeping an open mind about the measure, adding that he will likely know by the end of the week if the measure is needed.
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