New York Expands Program To Help Pay Funeral Costs Of Murder Victims

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP)-- New York state is doing more to help cover the costs of funerals for murder victims.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says Friday that he has signed legislation allowing funeral homes to seek up to $6,000 in reimbursement for expenses such as burial fees, clergy fees, headstones, flowers or obituaries for homicide victims.

"Families experiencing a sudden and tragic loss should not have to also face the burden of burial costs," Cuomo said in a released statement. "This legislation will help give the family members of homicide victims some peace of mind as they say their final goodbyes. I thank the sponsors of this legislation for their work in getting this passed."

Under the old policy, families of victims had to seek the reimbursement themselves, forcing them to pay the costs upfront.

Before they are eligible for the help, victims' families must use up existing insurance policies or funeral coverage plans.

"The loss of a loved one is devastating, especially when that person falls victim to crime. These changes give the families of crime victims peace of mind and takes the worry of funeral expenses off their shoulders during their time of mourning," Senator Patrick Gallivan said.

In the last fiscal year the state's Office of Victim Services covered more than $1.8 million in funeral expenses.

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