What happens if a family does not make arrangements for a funeral service?

When a family does not make arrangements for a funeral service, the state steps in to manage the disposition of the body. This is important because the state has a legal responsibility to ensure that all deceased individuals are handled according to health and safety regulations. If a family does not take action, local authorities may intervene, often referring to public health laws.

This process typically involves the state determining the most appropriate method of disposition, which might include burial, cremation, or other means, usually at no cost to the family, but potentially funded through state or local resources. The aim is to prevent unclaimed bodies from becoming a public health issue and to respect the dignity of the deceased.

The other options do not accurately reflect the legal framework in Tennessee regarding unclaimed bodies or the responsibilities of funeral homes and families.