Washington § 68.50.300 - Release of information concerning a death.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 68.50.300 — Release of information concerning a death., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 68.50.300. Release of information concerning a death.

(1) The county coroner, medical examiner, or prosecuting attorney having jurisdiction may in such official's discretion release information concerning a person's death to the media and general public, in order to aid in identifying the deceased, when the identity of the deceased is unknown to the official and when he or she does not know the information to be readily available through other sources.
(2)(a) The county coroner, medical examiner, or prosecuting attorney may withhold any information which directly or indirectly identifies a decedent until either:
(i) A notification period of forty-eight hours has elapsed after identification of the decedent by such official; or
(ii) The next of kin of the decedent has been notified.
(b) During the forty-eight hour notification period, such official shall make a good faith attempt to locate and notify the next of kin of the decedent.
(3) The county coroner, medical examiner, or prosecuting attorney having jurisdiction may release information contained in a report of death, as defined in chapter 70.58A RCW, to the media and general public.
[ 2019 c 148 s 37; 2012 c 117 s 318; 1981 c 176 s 2. Formerly RCW 68.08.320.]

Notes

Effective date—Rule-making authority—2019 c 148: See RCW 70.58A.901 and 70.58A.902.

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Related Washington Legal Topics

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 68.50.300

What does Revised Code of Washington § 68.50.300 cover?

Section 68.50.300 ("Release of information concerning a death.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 68.50.300?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 68.50.300" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 68.50.300 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.