Discuss, consider, and take appropriate action on the transportation of the deceased discretionary exemption as an item necessary to preserve or protect the public health or safety of the residents of the county.

The transportation of deceased individuals may be considered a necessary service to preserve and protect the public health and safety of county residents. Timely removal of human remains from homes, public locations, healthcare facilities, or other death scenes prevents potential health concerns, supports death investigations, maintains public confidence, and ensures the dignified handling of the deceased. Due to the urgent and often unpredictable nature of these services, counties may determine that the transportation of deceased individuals may qualify as a discretionary exemption from competitive procurement requirements when necessary to protect public health and safety and to ensure the efficient operation of the county's death investigation system.