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Abandoned Ashes Growing Problem For Funeral Homes

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Aug 19, 2008 7:58 pm US/Eastern

Abandoned Ashes Growing Problem For Funeral Homes

BOSTON (AP) ― Funeral directors are hoping Governor Patrick will sign a bill that would allow them to dispose of unclaimed ashes after 12 months.

Under the legislation, the ashes could be buried in a common grave, placed in a crypt or scattered in a cemetery.

Many funeral homes around Massachusetts have been storing abandoned ashes for years, hoping that loved one will eventually claim them. The state currently has regulations requiring funeral directors to contact next of kin and hold remains for six months. But many directors say because the regulations have no force of law, they've been holding on to the ashes rather than risk a lawsuit from an angry relative.

Storage or disposal of abandoned ashes is a growing national problem, as the number of cremations is on the rise. A majority of states have laws setting minimum waiting periods for funeral homes to store unclaimed cremated remains, ranging from 60 days to four years.

(© 2009 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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