The bill amends K.S.A. 22a-215 regarding the responsibilities of coroners in the disposition of deceased individuals' remains. It specifies that if there is no immediate family or next of kin to accept the remains, the coroner is required to notify and deliver the remains according to the provisions of article 9 of chapter 65 of the Kansas Statutes, rather than reporting and making delivery as previously stated. Additionally, the bill outlines the process for cremation or burial expenses, indicating that these costs will be covered by any property found with the deceased, or by the county general fund if no property is available, unless the deceased was in the custody of the secretary of corrections.

Furthermore, the bill establishes procedures for the disposal of cremated remains that have not been claimed within three years, including the requirement for the coroner to publish a notice in a local newspaper. It also clarifies that if a person claims the cremated remains, they must reimburse the coroner for cremation costs. The bill includes provisions for the burial of cremated remains and states that the coroner is not liable for costs arising from the disposition of remains, except in cases of gross negligence. Lastly, it introduces penalties for coroners who improperly deliver remains against the wishes of the immediate family or next of kin. The existing K.S.A. 22a-215 is repealed, and the act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: