The bill amends K.S.A. 65-1734 to establish a clear order of priority for individuals who can make decisions regarding the final disposition of a decedent's remains, particularly focusing on situations where the decedent's surviving parents cannot agree. The new legal language specifies that if the surviving parents cannot reach an agreement within 60 days of the decedent's death, the mother will have first priority for 30 days to make the decision. If she does not act within that timeframe, the father will then have the first priority. Additionally, it allows an incarcerated parent to authorize final disposition through a notarized statement.

The bill also includes provisions for individuals who died during active military service, granting priority to the person authorized by the decedent on their Department of Defense record. Furthermore, it protects funeral directors and establishments from criminal prosecution or civil liability when they follow the lawful instructions of the designated individuals. The existing section of K.S.A. 65-1734 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-1734