Bill > H2464

This bill amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 38 to address how abandoned human remains are handled. Specifically, the bill defines "Abandoned Remains" as a dead body that no one has legally claimed for 15 days. It requires the office of the chief medical officer to accept and temporarily store abandoned remains of individuals who have died of natural causes in facilities licensed by the Department of Public Health, such as hospitals or nursing homes. This applies in situations where there is no designated next of kin and no written plan for the body's disposition. After temporarily storing the remains, the medical examiner's office may subsequently transfer the body to the Department of Transitional Assistance, which can presumably handle final arrangements or burial. The bill provides a standardized process for managing unclaimed deceased individuals, ensuring that their remains are treated with appropriate care and respect when no family members or other responsible parties can be identified.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2464