Summary
Chapter 246-500 WAC sets rules to keep people safe when handling human remains. The State Board of Health (Board) can make rules to stop and manage diseases. This includes rules for handling and moving human remains. The Board is exploring how to align these rules with recent changes to state law.
For More Information
Statutory Authority: RCW 43.20.050(2)(f) and RCW 34.05.310(4)(d)
State Board of Health Contact: Shay Bauman, Shay.Bauman@sboh.wa.gov
Additional Background
In 2024, the Washington State Legislature passed Substitute House Bill (SHB) 1974 (Chapter 57, Laws 2024). This bill reduces the time from 90 days to 45 days in which a person or entity is required to remain in lawful possession of unclaimed human remains. SHB 1974 also adds counties to the list of entities that may lawfully dispose of unclaimed human remains after 45 days.
The Board’s rule references the holding period related to burial transfer permits for the disposition of remains reduced through cremation (WAC 246-500-050), alkaline hydrolysis (WAC 246-500-053), and natural organic reduction (WAC 246-500-055). Chapter 246-500 WAC also does not name counties in the list of entities that may lawfully possess, and therefore transfer, remains.
At its June 12, 2024, meeting, the Board held a public hearing and adopted amendments to the rule to align it with the changes in statute.
Related Links
June 12, 2024, Board Meeting
- Hearing Memo
- Board Staff Presentation
- Meeting Minutes (Available August 9, 2024)
- Meeting Recording (Beginning at 03:00:15)
April 10, 2024, Board Meeting
