(a) If in a claim for death benefits based on an occupational disease an autopsy is necessary to determine the cause of death, the commission may, after opportunity for hearing, order the legal beneficiaries of a deceased employee to permit an autopsy.

(b) A legal beneficiary is entitled to have a representative present at an autopsy ordered under this section.

(c) The commissioner shall require the insurance carrier to pay the costs of a procedure ordered under this section.

Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 269, § 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 265 (H.B. 7), § 3.130, eff. September 1, 2005.