The bill amends K.S.A. 22a-215 regarding the responsibilities of coroners in the handling 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 Kansas Statutes Annotated, rather than reporting and making delivery as previously stated. Additionally, the bill outlines the process for cremation or burial of unclaimed bodies, including the payment of expenses from any property found with the deceased or from the county general fund if no property is available.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the disposal of cremated remains if they are unclaimed for three years, including the requirement for the coroner to publish a notice in a local newspaper. It also establishes that if a person claims the cremated remains, they must reimburse the coroner for cremation costs. The bill clarifies that the coroner is not liable for costs related to the disposition of cremated remains unless gross negligence or willful misconduct is involved. Lastly, it includes a penalty for coroners who improperly deliver remains against the wishes of the immediate family or next of kin, classifying such an act as a class B nonperson misdemeanor.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: