HI HB2534

Makes permanent the reduced death benefit for medical and financial assistance recipients that was set to expire June 30, 2012, capping benefits at the Social Security Administration's one-time lump-sum death benefit amount.

Clarifies that the Department of Human Services may only pay for mortuary and crematory services for unclaimed dead human bodies after approving a determination that the body is unclaimed, with a maximum payment of $800 per body.

Requires individuals with possession or control of unclaimed dead human bodies to submit written determination and payment application to the department within 60 days of death, except county medical examiners or coroners have no time limitation.

Redefines "unclaimed corpse" as "unclaimed dead human body" and simplifies the definition to mean remains where no one has assumed responsibility for disposition and no legally responsible individual has been identified.

Effective date is June 29, 2012.