Independent Medical Examination Services for In‑Custody Deaths under Assembly Bill (AB) 1108

The County of Santa Barbara is soliciting letters of interest from qualified providers to perform independent medical examinations for in-custody deaths occurring within its jurisdiction. This initiative is designed to ensure compliance with California Assembly Bill 1108, which aims to eliminate potential conflicts of interest in counties where sheriff and coroner functions are combined. The County intends to have these contracts established before the legislation takes effect on January 1, 2027. Interested providers must submit their letters of interest through the Public Purchase portal by October 9, 2026, providing details on their professional experience, fee structures, and capacity to operate independently from the Sheriff-Coroner Office. Selected contractors will be required to adhere to strict professional services agreements, including mandatory indemnification and specific insurance coverage limits, such as two million dollars for professional liability and one million dollars each for commercial general and automobile liability.