What must a funeral home do with unclaimed bodies under Tennessee law?

Under Tennessee law, when a funeral home is faced with unclaimed bodies, the correct course of action is to report to the local authorities and adhere to specific guidelines for handling these cases. This requirement ensures that the deceased are treated with dignity and respect, while also fulfilling legal obligations.

Funeral homes must notify the appropriate local authorities to determine the next steps, which may include arranging for the body to be held until the family can claim it, or, if the family is untraceable, to follow the established protocols for handling unclaimed remains. This may involve burial in a designated area or cremation, all in accordance with state regulations. The clear guideline provided by the law helps maintain public health and safety, while also ensuring that the deceased's remains are dealt with in a manner that honors their dignity.