Bill > SB57

This bill establishes a comprehensive process for handling unclaimed remains of veterans and their eligible dependents, focusing on cremated, hydrolyzed, and soil remains. Under the new law, licensed funeral establishments, crematories, and reduction facilities must first attempt to identify if unclaimed remains belong to a veteran or eligible dependent (defined as a veteran's spouse or unmarried child) by providing identifying information to a veterans service organization within specific timeframes. If the remains are confirmed to be those of a veteran or eligible dependent, the veterans service organization has the opportunity to take possession of the remains for burial in a veterans cemetery. However, if the veterans service organization does not take possession within 10 days of notification, the facility must then notify the Department of Veterans and Military Families and transfer the remains to them for appropriate disposition. For soil remains specifically, the reduction facility may transfer up to 300 cubic inches to a veterans service organization and, if authorized, transfer the remaining soil to a cemetery or woodland protected under the Forest Conservation Act. The bill aims to ensure respectful and dignified handling of unclaimed veterans' remains and provides a clear protocol for their potential burial or disposition. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0057?ys=2025RS