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Commissioners increase county indigent cremation payment range to $1,000–$1,500
Summary
Lavaca County Commissioners voted to give judges discretion to authorize indigent cremations at $1,000–$1,500 (up from $600); eligibility requires an affidavit proving inability to pay and the policy will be revisited after budget season.
The Lavaca County Commissioners Court voted on Aug. 12, 2024, to increase the allowable payment range for county‑authorized indigent cremations from $600 to a range of $1,000–$1,500 so the judge may exercise discretion depending on the provider and circumstances.
Commissioners discussed that funeral homes reported losing money at the $600 rate and requested flexibility. The judge said that, to qualify for the county payment, families must complete an affidavit proving they have no funds to pay and that the county clerk’s office will process applications and supporting information. County staff noted that falsifying an affidavit could have legal consequences.
A motion from Precinct 4, seconded by Precinct 3, to allow the increased payment range passed by voice vote. Commissioners said they plan to revisit the county’s indigent disposition policy after the budget season to formalize changes and any programmatic adjustments.
