HF 2266 – Information on unclaimed remains to identify if a veteran
FLOOR ACTION:
HF 2266 provides a process by which unclaimed, cremated remains of veterans can be identified and receive a proper burial. After 180 days, funeral directors who have cremated remains that have not been claimed by a relative can release identifying information to the Iowa Department of Veteran Affairs (IDVA), which will determine if the deceased was a veteran (or dependent of a veteran) who may be eligible for inurnment at a veterans’ cemetery. If the IDVA determines that the deceased is eligible, it will notify the funeral director. If, after an additional 180 days, no one has claimed the remains, the funeral director will transfer the remains to an eligible veterans’ organization that has made arrangements for inurnment. The bill also gives funeral directors, the IDVA and eligible veterans’ organizations immunity from liability related to carrying out this process. The Senate amended the bill to clarify that the language does not conflict with current law (Chapter 144C — Persons authorized to control the decedent’s remains) regarding claimed or unclaimed remains of any individual. The bill passed the House 97-0.
[3/16: 49-0 (Bertrand absent)]