Bill > HB677

This bill provides immunity from civil lawsuits for certain entities involved in the disposition of unclaimed remains of veterans and their dependents. Specifically, a registered reduction operator, which is an individual authorized to manage a facility for natural organic reduction (the process of converting human remains into soil), will not be held liable if they transfer unclaimed hydrolyzed or soil remains of a veteran or their eligible dependent to a veterans service organization acting in good faith for the purpose of their final disposition. Similarly, a veterans service organization will not face civil liability if it receives these unclaimed hydrolyzed or soil remains from a registered reduction operator, also acting in good faith for disposition. This legislation clarifies and expands upon existing laws regarding the handling of veteran remains, ensuring that organizations can assist with the respectful final arrangements of veterans and their families without undue legal risk.