Abusers under restraining orders lose the right to decide a victim's burial
Under Marissa's Law, control of a person's remains passes to the next of kin if the funeral home or cemetery knows the person in line was under a domestic violence restraining order protecting the deceased, or a court ruling shows it was against their interests.
Who it affects
Funeral directors, cemeteries and families of people who died
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
Official text
California AB 2542: Human remains: disposition.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.