Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD465

Introduced
2/7/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Engrossed
4/25/23  
Enrolled
5/2/23  

Caption

An Act to Provide for an Electronic Permit for the Disposition of Human Remains

Impact

If enacted, LD465 would modify existing laws regarding the issuance of permits for the disposition of human remains. Currently, certain processes are required to be completed and documented in paper form, which can be cumbersome and difficult to manage. By implementing an electronic permit system, the bill encourages timely processing and retrieval of information related to human remains, thereby improving compliance and oversight in the field of vital statistics. This could have broader implications for public health reporting and statistics in the state.

Summary

LD465, titled 'An Act to Provide for an Electronic Permit for the Disposition of Human Remains', seeks to modernize the current processes related to the disposal of human remains in the state of Maine. By enabling the use of electronic permits, the bill aims to streamline the administrative procedures surrounding burial, cremation, and other methods of final disposition. This shift towards electronic documentation represents an effort to increase efficiency within the vital statistics framework and align with contemporary practices in record-keeping.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally positive, as it aims to simplify bureaucratic processes and enhance efficiency. Stakeholders and proponents view the move toward an electronic system as a necessary evolution in the way that vital statistics and regulations are managed within the state. There may be some concerns regarding the technological aspects of such a transition, specifically addressing the safeguarding of sensitive information and ensuring equitable access to the electronic systems being proposed.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding LD465 include discussions about data privacy and security related to electronic record-keeping. Opponents may express concerns regarding the potential risks involved with digitizing sensitive information around human remains. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the accessibility of electronic systems for funeral directors, municipal clerks, and other stakeholders involved in the process, highlighting the need to ensure that all parties can comfortably navigate and utilize the new system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD536

An Act to Provide Natural Organic Reduction Facilities for Maine Residents for the Conversion of Human Remains to Soil

ME AB2592

Reduction of human remains and the disposition of reduced human remains.

ME AB351

Reduction of human remains and the disposition of reduced human remains.

ME AB501

Reduction of human remains and the disposition of reduced human remains.

ME SB611

Provides relative to disposition of human remains. (7/1/14)

ME SB208

Provides for disposition of human remains. (7/1/15) (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)

ME H7212

Provides for the operation and duties of natural organic reduction for the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. A disposition facility would be used for either cremation or natural organic reduction.

ME SB166

Provides for the burial of certain pet remains with human remains. (1/1/17)

ME HB873

Provide for the disposition of fetal remains

ME HB672

Provides relative to rights and requirements of certain persons authorized to arrange the disposition of human remains

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.