January 7, 2025 – The next of kin for decedents seen by the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner (DME) will not be charged transportation and storage fees the DME announced today after the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to permanently waive the $400 fees.
“Charging families who lost a loved one for transportation and storage fees never sat well with me and staff,” Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Odey Ukpo said. “End of life expenses are costly, and can bring about financial hardship for families, especially in LA County. I hope families receive some reprieve knowing they will not receive a transport bill. I’m grateful to the Board for recognizing the Department’s efforts to lead with kindness and compassion by certifying the of elimination of these fees.”
The DME launched a 180-day pilot program in March 2024 and worked with the County Chief Executive Officer to identify ways to allocate funds to the DME to replenish the lost revenue.
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