The original instrument was prepared by Brandi Cannon. The following digest, which
does not constitute a part of the legislative instrument, was prepared by Alan Miller.
DIGEST
SB 187 Engrossed 2023 Regular Session Kleinpeter
Present law provides that if the cremation of a body is requested, the funeral director shall
immediately notify the coroner who has jurisdiction in the death. Proposed law retains present law.
Present law provides that the coroner shall issue a permit for cremation if, after the necessary
investigation, he is satisfied that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
Present law provides that the coroner shall deny the permit if the investigation reveals suspicious
circumstances or the reasonable probability of the commission of a crime.
Present law further provides that the coroner may issue a permit for cremation after completion of
his investigation. Proposed law specifies that the permit for cremation shall be denied until the
investigation is complete.
Proposed law requires the coroner, upon completion of his investigation, to release the body to the
family or friends for disposition in accordance with present law. Provides that when the coroner
cannot release the body within 30 days of death, the coroner is required to notify in writing the
person or persons with the right to dispose of human remains the reasons for any delay in release of
the body.
Effective August 1, 2023.
(Amends R.S. 13:5716)
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Committee Amendments Proposed by Senate Committee on Judiciary B to the original bill
1. Prohibits the coroner from issuing a permit for cremation until his investigation is
complete.
2. Requires the coroner, upon completion of his investigation, to release the body, and
if the body cannot be released within 30 days of death, requires notification to notify
the person or persons with the right to dispose of human remains the reasons for any
delay in releasing of the body.