Informing the Legislature that on June 27, 2024, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB1533 HD2 SD1 CD1 (ACT 108).

This bill increases the state death benefit reimbursement for cremation and disposition of unclaimed bodies from $800 to $1,600. It directly affects the Department of Human Services, licensed mortuaries, and cemeteries that currently handle these services for individuals who were eligible for medical or financial assistance at the time of their death. The change aims to better cover the rising market costs of these services, which are estimated at approximately $2,400, and includes an appropriation of $277,600 for the 2024-2025 fiscal year to fund the increase. The new law takes effect on July 1, 2024, and removes the 60-day submission deadline for county medical examiners or coroners to apply for payment.