The California State Senate's Public Safety Committee convened on July 1, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 1108, aimed at reforming the investigation of deaths in custody. The bill seeks to address potential conflicts of interest arising from the current system, where elected sheriffs also serve as coroners in 48 of California's 58 counties.

Assembly Member Hart introduced AB 1108, emphasizing the need for independent medical professionals to determine the circumstances, cause, and manner of death for individuals who die while in custody. He highlighted a 2024 Santa Barbara County Grand Jury Report that pointed out both real and perceived conflicts of interest in the existing arrangement, where the same officials responsible for the safety of incarcerated individuals also conduct death investigations.

Margo George, representing the California Public Defenders Association, spoke in support of the bill, asserting that it is crucial for medical investigations to be free from any influence by the agencies responsible for incarceration. She noted that AB 1108 would allow for independent medical examiners to conduct investigations, thereby ensuring objectivity and integrity in determining the cause of death.

The committee also heard from supporters of the bill, including Britney Stonecipher from Kaiser Advocacy, who echoed the need for independent oversight in death investigations.

However, opposition was voiced by Tanya Hall, founder of the Miles Hall Foundation, who argued that the bill does not adequately resolve the inherent conflicts of interest in the sheriff-coroner model. Hall expressed concerns that contracting with third-party medical examination services may not eliminate bias, as these services often have existing relationships with sheriff's offices.

The committee's discussions highlighted the ongoing debate over the effectiveness of AB 1108 in ensuring impartial investigations into in-custody deaths. As the bill moves forward, it remains to be seen how it will address the complexities of the current system and the concerns raised by both supporters and opponents.