Authorization for Cremation

PURPOSE: This rule establishes procedures required prior to cremation of a dead human body. (1) If the cause of death can be established within seventy-two (72) hours after death, a completed death certificate certifying the cause of death as determined by the medical examiner/ coroner or physician shall be delivered or mailed to the local registrar of the county where the death occurred before a body is cremated. (2) If a completed death certificate cannot be filed because the cause of death has not been determined, the medical examiner/coroner or physician certifying the cause of death shall give the funeral director notice of the reason for the delay. A body shall not be cremated until written authorization by the medical examiner/coroner or physician is received by the funeral director. This authorization shall be a signed statement which identifies the deceased and authorizes final disposition by cremation. (3) Management of a crematory shall require from an authorized funeral home representative presenting a body for cremation a signed statement which identifies the deceased and which states that— (A) A completed death certificate has been filed with the local registrar where the death occurred; or (B) The funeral director has received a written authorization to cremate the body from the medical examiner/coroner or physician who will be certifying the cause of death. AUTHORITY: sections 193.145 and 193.175, RSMo 1986.* This rule was previously filed as 19 CSR 30-10.100. Original rule filed July 15, 1991, effective Jan. 13, 1992. Changed to 19 CSR 10-10.100 July 30, 1998. *Original authority: 193.145, RSMo 1984, amended 1989 and 193.175, RSMo 1984.