Prohibits unclaimed human remains from being buried, cremated, or otherwise finally disposed of unless such remains have first been entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, and for a period of time thereafter as specified by the commissioner of health.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A11146B
SPONSOR: Wieder TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public health law, in relation to the handling of
certain unclaimed remains
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The purpose of this bill is to ensure that unclaimed bodies to be listed
in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) database
prior to final disposition.
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 requires that no unclaimed human remains be buried, cremated,
or otherwise finally disposed of unless such remains have first been
entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System
(NamUs), or any successor database, in accordance with applicable proce-
dures.
Section 2 provides that the act shall take effect on the ninetieth day
after it becomes law.
JUSTIFICATION:
The requirement that unclaimed remains be entered into the National
Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) prior to final disposi-
tion ensures that reasonable efforts are made to identify the deceased
and locate next of kin. This enhances transparency, accountability, and
the likelihood of identification before irreversible actions are taken.
This legislation advances both dignity and due process in the handling
of unclaimed bodies.
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
None
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
Potential cost savings to local governments where burial expenses are
assumed by private religious organizations.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall have
become a law.
