The Ryan Lim Act

seeks to establish minimum statewide standards for unidentified decedent investigations.

Identification Standards

Mandatory NamUs Timelines

Require unidentified individuals to be entered into NamUs within a defined timeframe.

Why it matters: National databases can help connect families, investigators, and unidentified persons records more quickly.

Require documentation of all reasonable identification efforts, including:

  • Supervisory review after 30, 60, and 90 days

  • Fingerprint comparisons

  • Missing person database searches

  • Review of distinguishing marks and tattoos

  • Use of available identification resources

Family Inquiry Documentation

Personal Property Accountability

Require agencies to:

  • Document family inquiries

  • Review potential matches

  • Maintain records of investigative actions

  • Ensure consistent follow-up procedures

Expected Impact

✅ Faster identifications

✅ Faster family notification

✅ Consistent statewide standards

✅ Increased public accountability

✅ Reduced trauma for families

✅ Greater public confidence in identification systems

Require preservation and documentation of property that may assist with identification, including:

  • Mobile phones

  • Wallets

  • Identification cards

  • Personal documents

Oversight & Transparency

Join the Coalition

Establish accountability through:

  • Periodic case reviews

  • Reporting requirements

  • Compliance monitoring

  • Public transparency measures