§ 20-17-1403. Verification that the decedent was a veteran

(a)

1. (1) The authorizing agent shall conduct a diligent search with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to determine whether the decedent was a veteran if:

   1. (A) The decedent is eighteen (18) years of age or older; and

   2. (B) The remains are determined to be unclaimed remains.

2. (2) The search must be completed within five (5) days after the decedent’s death.

(b) The authorizing agent may share identifying information of the decedent with a veterans service organization or the Department of Veterans Affairs and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to:

1. (1) Determine whether the decedent was a veteran; and

2. (2) Verify that the decedent is entitled to veteran interment benefits.