The Madisonville state medical examiner’s office remains open after being threatened with closure earlier this year. The office hasn't had a medical examiner since June 2011, but now officials hope that a new salary for first-year medical examiners may entice applicants.
The Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer reports western Kentucky legislators, coroners and law enforcement personnel argued to keep the office open after it was considered for closure as a cost-saving move during the 2012 legislative session. Justice and Public Safety Cabinet spokeswoman Jennifer Brislin says a new salary schedule that took effect last week sets the salary for a first-year medical examiner at between $108,000 and $141,000.