Who bears the cost of an autopsy performed at the request of the Department of Labor and Industries?

When an autopsy is performed at the request of the Department of Labor and Industries, the responsibility for bearing the cost falls on that department itself. This is outlined in Washington state regulations, which specify that the Department of Labor and Industries will cover the expenses associated with autopsies conducted under their directive. This provision is important to ensure that the department can fulfill its role in investigating workplace injuries, fatalities, and related incidents without passing the financial burden onto individuals or other entities involved. Understanding this aspect of funding for autopsies is crucial for funeral directors, as it influences how they interact with various government agencies and what protocols they should follow in situations where an autopsy is mandated by the state.