The Assembly Local Government Committee advanced SB 1379 on June 17, moving the Riverside County bill to the Assembly Public Safety Committee after a divided vote.
The measure would separate the county sheriff-coroner office and create an independent medical examiner, according to the committee hearing materials. Supporters told lawmakers the change is needed because of Riverside County jail deaths, lawsuits and public distrust. Testimony also pointed to settlement costs and cited independent medical examiner systems in other counties.
Opponents, including law-enforcement groups and sheriff-coroner personnel, warned that splitting the offices could create staffing problems, transition costs and governance disruption. During the hearing, Riverside County opposition speakers said the change could add significant operating expenses.
The committee hearing summary says SB 1379 was sent to Public Safety after the vote. It also notes that the author said employee-protection amendments would be handled in another committee.
The bill remains under consideration as it moves deeper into the Legislature.
