§34-13-122. Disposition of cremated remains.

(a) The authorizing agent shall provide to the funeral establishment which the cremation arrangements are made a signed statement specifying the ultimate disposition of the cremated remains, if known. A copy of this statement shall be retained by the funeral establishment offering or conducting the cremation.

(b) Cremated remains shall be shipped only by a method that has an internal tracing system available and that provides a receipt signed by the person accepting delivery.

(c) The authorizing agent is responsible for the disposition of the cremated remains. If, after 60 days from the date of cremation, the authorizing agent or his or her representative has not specified the ultimate disposition or claimed the cremated remains, the funeral establishment or entity in possession of the cremated remains may dispose of the cremated remains in a dignified and humane manner and in accordance with any state, county, or municipal laws or provisions regarding the disposal of cremated remains. A record of this disposition shall be made and kept by the entity making the disposition. Upon disposing of cremated remains in accordance with this section, the funeral establishment or entity in possession of the cremated remains shall be discharged from any legal obligation or liability concerning the cremated remains.

(Act 2002-239, p. 498, §3.)