Story Of Heartbreak Powers Push To Avert Autopsies

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — American Indian families are pushing for a new state law allowing religious exemptions to autopsies. Lawmakers are listening.

A House panel unanimously passed a bill Thursday allowing families to object to autopsies on loved ones due to religious concerns. It provides an avenue for autopsies to proceed in several cases, like murder or concerns of infectious disease. A similar bill is proceeding in the Senate.

Winnie LaPrairie says it took court orders and several days of protesting earlier this year to save her husband's body from an autopsy that would have violated their cultural beliefs. She calls the ordeal heartbreaking.

At least eight other states allow religious objections to autopsies. Gov. Mark Dayton says the Legislature should pass a bill recognizing Minnesota residents' religious beliefs.