MS HB615

Amends Section 73-11-58 of Mississippi Code to recognize the person designated on a decedent's DD Form 93 (Department of Defense Record of Emergency Data) as authorized to direct body disposition if the decedent died on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserve Forces, or National Guard.

Establishes a priority order for who may authorize disposition of a decedent's body when no written authorization exists, including surviving spouse, adult children, parents, adult siblings, and other relatives in descending kinship order.

Prohibits funeral establishments from accepting a deceased body without first inquiring about the legal authority to direct disposition and requires them to follow the directions of authorized persons.

Requires funeral establishments to provide services at no charge if remains are received in violation of these authorization requirements, except for removal and professional services in cases of accidental or violent death.

Takes effect upon passage.