ATLANTA (February 24, 2012) –The Georgia Senate passed SB 372 today in a unanimous vote. Sponsored by Sen. Renee Unterman (R-Buford), this legislation would require funeral directors to make a reasonable effort to determine whether the deceased is a veteran.
“I am pleased with the overwhelming amount of bipartisan support that SB 372 received in the Senate today,” said Sen. Unterman. “The passage of this bill provides military veterans with the burial honors they deserve and recognizes their selfless dedication to defend our nation.”
At the time the cremation is authorized, the funeral director must determine whether the legally authorized person in charge of burial arrangements has information or belief that the person being cremated is a veteran. If the funeral director is unable to determine whether the deceased is a veteran, organizations such as the State Department of Veterans Services will be allowed to conduct further research to determine military status to ensure all veterans receive proper recognition and burial rights.
Under this legislation, Georgia’s veterans will now have the opportunity to receive full military funeral honors if the family so chooses. These privileges include burial or cremation at a state or national veterans’ cemetery. In addition, veterans’ families could also receive additional monetary benefits to help alleviate burial costs.
According to this bill, if the cremated remains are not claimed by a legally authorized person, then the funeral director must hold the cremated remains for at least 60 days. After this time period, the director is then required to send a written notice to the legally authorized person requesting instructions for final burial arrangements.
“I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to Guy Webb, coordinator for the Georgia Missing in America Project and member of the Buford County American Legion Post,” said Sen. Unterman. “As coordinator for the Georgia Missing in America Project, Mr. Webb plays a critical role helping to identify and inter the unclaimed cremated remains of America’s veterans.”
SB 372 will continue its way through the legislative process by traveling to the House of Representatives for a vote.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
February 24, 2012
For Information Contact:
Natalie Dale, Director
Shawna Mercer,Sr. Communications Specialist
shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028