What is the statute regarding the retention of the remains if the deceased is unclaimed in Missouri?

The statute regarding the retention of unclaimed remains in Missouri allows funeral homes to dispose of them after a certain period. This regulation is in place to ensure that unclaimed bodies are handled appropriately, balancing public health interests with the dignity of the deceased. In practice, this typically involves a waiting period during which efforts must be made to identify and locate next of kin or other responsible parties. If no claims are made after this period, funeral homes have the legal right to proceed with disposal, which can include burial or cremation. The emphasis is on accountability and proper procedure by the funeral homes to manage unclaimed remains responsibly, while also addressing the potential burden on facilities to retain such remains indefinitely.