This bill amends Section 54-1143 of the Idaho Code to establish new provisions regarding definitive identification of deceased individuals prior to their cremation or burial. It specifies that any person signing a funeral service agreement or cremation authorization warrants the truthfulness of the information provided, including the identity of the deceased. The bill introduces the requirement that funeral establishments, cemeteries, or crematory establishments must verify definitive identification of the decedent by an authorized professional before proceeding with cremation. It defines "definitive identification" as a verification method that includes fingerprinting, DNA analysis, government-issued identification, or visual identification by a legal next of kin.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that there will be no liability for funeral establishments, cemeteries, or crematory establishments that dispose of human remains in compliance with these new provisions. The bill also includes a technical correction and declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 54-1143