Bill No.: HB0042                  Drafter:  JDA

LSO No.:  09LSO-0285              Effective Date:  7/1/2009

Enrolled Act No.:  HEA0071

Chapter No.:       125

Prime Sponsor:     Representative Zwonitzer, Dv.

Catch Title:       Burial arrangements.

Subject:  Burial arrangements.

Summary/Major Elements:

· · This bill addresses the issue of how to handle burial arrangements when a decedent does not provide written instructions concerning entombment, burial or cremation.

· If no written instructions are provided the undertaker or funeral director is required to obtain consent from a specified list of relatives, who are authorized to consent in a priority listing to burial arrangements for the decedent.

· The bill provides a prioritization and procedure to follow if conflicting instructions are provided.

· · If consent is not provided within seven days of the decedent's death, the coroner is authorized to provide consent.

· · The bill provides immunity from civil liability for funeral directors and undertakers acting in accordance with the section.