Kentucky has officially passed legislation requiring that, before cremating an unclaimed deceased individual, authorities must make a good-faith effort to notify a relevant religious organization that volunteers to arrange for burial.

The bill, sponsored by Republican state Senator Greg Elkins, allows Corners to cremate bodies, but requires them to work with religious organizations that volunteer to provide burial for anyone of their faith.

While earlier versions of the bill referenced Chabad specifically, the final law was broadened to include any religious organization willing to assume responsibility, and Chabad has already reached out to corners across the Commonwealth, offering to cover all costs for any Jewish person in need.

Rabbi Shlomo Litvin, Director of Chabad of the Bluegrass and Chairman of the Kentucky Jewish Council, who had helped craft the language, welcomed the change:

“I supported expanding the bill because this was never about credit—it’s about helping people. If someone can be buried with dignity, and according to Jewish Law, instead of being cremated against their beliefs, that’s what matters. And hopefully this creates a model that can be copied in other jurisdictions.”

Ian Williamson, Treasurer of the Kentucky Jewish Council, praised Rabbi Litvin’s leadership:

“Rabbi Litvin showed unwavering commitment throughout this process. Even in the face of criticism, he refused to listen to naysayers and do-nothings and stayed focused on doing what was right.”

The new law positions Kentucky as a national leader in safeguarding religious rights and ensuring dignity for the deceased, and creates a gold standard for other states to follow.