SB 2986

Abstract

Creates the Funeral and Burial Assistance Program for Murdered Children Act. Provides that a parent or guardian of a child victim under 17 years of age or anyone living in the household of a child victim in relationship to the victim that is substantially similar to a parent who has a household income of less than 150% of the federal poverty level who is killed as a result of a firearm may apply for funeral and burial assistance from the Department of Human Services in an amount not to exceed $10,000, indexed to inflation, beginning January 1, 2023, according to the Consumer Price Index. Provides that the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention shall review disbursement requirements by funeral establishments and upon conclusion of the review, provide a funeral establishment with a payment determination letter. Provides that the delinquent or criminal history of a child victim or an eligible survivor, or his or her status as a justice-involved individual, shall not automatically prevent an award for payment of a child victim's funeral and burial expenses. Establishes criteria for disbursement. Defines "justice-involved individual" as an individual who is imprisoned, on parole, probation, conditional discharge, mandatory supervised release, aftercare release, or any other release from custody, and supervised by or under the jurisdiction of a county or the Department of Corrections. Provides that every hospital licensed under the laws of the State shall display prominently in its emergency room posters giving notification of the existence and general provisions of the Act. Provides that any law enforcement agency that investigates an offense committed in the State shall inform the parent or guardian of the child victim concerning the availability of assistance for funeral and burial expenses under the Act and advise such persons that any information concerning the Act may be obtained from the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention. Defines various terms. Amends the State Finance Act to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.