<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" citation="COMAR 12.02.22.03" title_num="12" subtitle_num="02" chapter_num="22" heading="Eligibility for Funeral and Burial Expenses of Indigent Inmates.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>The warden or designee shall refer a family member of the deceased indigent inmate to the Department of Human Services for the determination of the indigent inmate's eligibility for funeral and burial funds.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>The Commissioner shall ensure that a family member who assumes responsibility for burial is known to the Maryland Department of Human Services by current eligibility for one of the following:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Cash benefit support;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Food stamps; or</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Medical assistance.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>The Commissioner shall ensure the verification of current eligibility is determined by confirmation from a local agency of the Maryland Department of Human Services.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>A family member assuming responsibility for burial shall visit the local Department of Human Services agency to complete the appropriate form to initiate application for Division funeral and burial expenses.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="E.">
    <text>Upon eligibility confirmation and receipt of the vendor's billing statement, the funds shall be paid by the Division directly to the funeral director of the family's choice.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="F.">
    <text>The amount of the eligibility entitlement supplements available funds, including the inmate's account, as specified in Article 88A, Sec. 62A, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="G.">
    <text>If the body of the indigent inmate is not claimed within 48 hours, the warden or warden's designee shall coordinate disposition of the body with the State Anatomy Board.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>