SF 2040: Relating to the final disposition of human remains

What it does

This bill relates to the final disposition of human remains. The bill vests the authority to control the final disposition of a decedent’s cremated remains in the next competent adult listed in Code section 144C.5 (final disposition of remains —— right to control) if a designee or person with the authority to control the decedent’s remains does not claim the cremated remains within calendar days after receipt of a written notice from a third party. The bill also makes technical changes to Code section 144C.8 (forfeiture of authority to control) by changing certain references to “declarant” to “decedent” and adding a reference to the person granted authority pursuant to Code chapter 144C (final disposition Act).

Senate subcommittee · named January 15, 2026

• Sen. Tom Shipley (R) · tom.shipley@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Tony Bisignano (D) · tony.bisignano@legis.iowa.gov
• Sen. Jeff Taylor (R) · jeff.taylor@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 2 for, 0 against

For: Association of Iowa Cemeteries; Iowa Funeral Directors Association

In plain words

1. January 13, 2026Filed in the Senate and sent to the Health and Human Services committee
2. January 15, 2026Senate subcommittee named: Shipley, Bisignano and Taylor
3. February 4, 2026Approved by the Senate committee
4. March 2, 2026Withdrawn