Relating To Death Benefits.
If enacted, SB2851 will amend Section 346-15 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, specifically increasing the reimbursement amount for cremation services of unclaimed bodies. This adjustment is crucial as it reflects the rising costs associated with such services due to factors such as increased fuel prices, labor, and material expenses. By raising the reimbursement, the bill aims to encourage mortuaries and cemeteries to continue accepting requests for cremation, which, without adequate compensation, they might otherwise refuse.
Senate Bill 2851 aims to address the issue of inadequate compensation for mortuaries and cemeteries handling unclaimed human remains in Hawaii. The current death benefit provided by the Department of Human Services for cremating and disposing of unclaimed bodies is $800, which falls short of the average service cost of approximately $2,400. The bill proposes increasing this benefit to $1,600, thereby helping to alleviate financial strains on these service providers and ensuring the ongoing capacity to handle cremation requests made by the State.
While the proposed increase appears beneficial for service providers, discussions surrounding the bill may bring up questions regarding the overall funding and financial management of the Department of Human Services. Stakeholders might debate whether the increased death benefit sufficiently addresses the needs of mortuaries and cemeteries, and whether it will be a sustainable solution moving forward. Additionally, there may be broader implications regarding how the State allocates resources for public assistance programs and the support provided to individuals at the end of life.