§ 20-17-1404. Authority to cremate unclaimed remains — Retention of the remains

(a) An authorizing agent may authorize the cremation of an unclaimed deceased veteran’s body.

(b) A funeral establishment that accepts the unclaimed remains of a veteran:

1. (1) Shall place the cremated remains in a container marked with the proper identification of the decedent;

2. (2)

   1. (A) Shall retain or arrange for the retention of the cremated remains until they are relinquished to:

      1. (i) A veterans service organization;

      2. (ii) The Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs; or

      3. (iii) The authorizing agent.

   2. (B) The veterans service organization or Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs must certify that the deceased veteran:

      1. (i) Is entitled to interment benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States Department of Veterans Affairs; and

      2. (ii) Will be provided a dignified and honorable funeral at a veterans cemetery; and

3. (3)

   1. (A) May dispose of the cremated remains in a manner permitted by law after five (5) days from the date of cremation if the cremated remains are not relinquished to a person as provided in subdivision (b)(2) of this section.

   2. (B) The disposal of the remains must comply with the public health and welfare laws of the State of Arkansas.