MS HB1304

Allows wrongful death beneficiaries to recover property damages, funeral, medical, and related expenses incurred by the deceased without requiring an estate to be opened.

Permits wrongful death beneficiaries to execute a full and final release regarding property damage and expense claims without court approval or estate administration.

Authorizes entities paying wrongful death damages to rely on two or more affidavits certifying the identities of appropriate statutory beneficiaries instead of requiring formal estate proceedings.

Maintains existing wrongful death damage distribution rules among spouses, children, parents, and siblings while streamlining the claim and release process.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.