Current with legislation from 2024 Fiscal and Special Sessions.
Section 20-17-1404 - Authority to cremate unclaimed remains - Retention of the remains(a) An authorizing agent may authorize the cremation of an unclaimed deceased veteran's body.(b) A funeral establishment that accepts the unclaimed remains of a veteran: (1) Shall place the cremated remains in a container marked with the proper identification of the decedent;(2)(A) Shall retain or arrange for the retention of the cremated remains until they are relinquished to: (i) A veterans service organization;(ii) The Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs; or(iii) The authorizing agent.(B) The veterans service organization or Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs must certify that the deceased veteran: (i) Is entitled to interment benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs; and(ii) Will be provided a dignified and honorable funeral at a veterans cemetery; and(3)(A) May dispose of the cremated remains in a manner permitted by law after five (5) days from the date of cremation if the cremated remains are not relinquished to a person as provided in subdivision (b)(2) of this section.(B) The disposal of the remains must comply with the public health and welfare laws of the State of Arkansas.Added by Act 2013, No. 723,§ 1, eff. 8/16/2013.