Connecticut House Bill HB05299

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/23/12
• Refer: 2/23/12
• Report Pass: 3/8/12
• Report Pass: 3/15/12
• Refer: 3/21/12
• Report Pass: 3/27/12
• Engrossed: 4/18/12
• Report Pass: 4/20/12
• Chaptered: 5/18/12
• Enrolled: 5/23/12
• Passed: 6/6/12

Caption

An Act Concerning The Disposition Of Remains Of Military Personnel.

Impact

The legislation revokes previous statutes, putting in place a structured hierarchy for determining who has the right to control the remains of a deceased individual. In cases where no specified directions exist, the bill provides a priority list of relatives such as spouses, adult children, and siblings to handle the remains. This ensures that family members have a clear legal standing in making decisions during emotionally difficult times. Furthermore, the bill grants legal standing to documents that military members may already have executed, which reinforces their autonomy in specifying their body’s final arrangements.

Summary

House Bill 05299, also known as An Act Concerning The Disposition Of Remains Of Military Personnel, establishes regulations regarding the handling of the remains of deceased military service members. This bill allows individuals over the age of eighteen to execute written documents in advance, detailing their preferences for body disposition, including designating a representative to carry out these wishes. The bill recognizes the unique circumstances surrounding military personnel and aims to provide clarity and authority regarding their final arrangements.

Sentiment

Overall, sentiment surrounding HB 05299 appears to be neutral to positive. Supporters appreciate the clarity and structure it provides for military families grappling with end-of-life decisions. The bill is seen as a necessary step in recognizing the unique status of military personnel and ensuring their wishes are respected. However, some may express concerns about potential conflicts arising from document execution and the authority over remains, emphasizing the need for family cohesion and proper legal guidance.

Contention

One notable point of contention within the discussions regarding HB 05299 focuses on the implications of the designated authority in executing disposition wishes. While the bill aims to streamline processes and empower individuals and families, there could be disagreements among relatives regarding control when multiple parties assert rights. Additionally, critics may highlight the potential need for clearer definitions around terms such as 'reasonable' in the bill, which could lead to varying interpretations in practice. The balance between respect for personal wishes and family dynamics remains a crucial discussion point.