Kentucky Enacts Law Requiring Contact With Religious Groups Before Cremating Unclaimed Bodies

Overview

• The governor signed Senate Bill 27 into law, directing officials to seek religious input before any final disposition of unclaimed bodies.
• Authorities must spend at least 30 days making a good-faith search for next of kin before choosing cremation or burial.
• Officials must consult the local coroner and contact a faith community linked to the deceased if that group has offered to arrange and pay for a burial.
• Lawmakers broadened the bill during debate so it applies to any willing religious group rather than naming Chabad alone.
• The statute also requires proper interment of ashes if cremation occurs, a provision backers say safeguards dignity and observance.