SS/SCS/HCS/HB 1696 - This act contains provisions relating to the care of vulnerable persons. If a deceased person is a minor with a court-appointed guardian at the time of the minor's death, the guardian shall be considered next-of-kin for purposes of the right of sepulcher, as described in the act. Additionally, the religious, cultural, family, and individual beliefs of a deceased person shall be considered by the next of kin when disposing of any human remains. Additionally, this act requires each residential camp staff member or volunteer 18 years of age or older to be subject to a criminal background check prior to commencing employment or service, as described in the act. Persons who are registered, or required to be registered, on a state sex offender registry or the National Sex Offender Registry or who have pled or been found guilty of certain offenses shall be ineligible for employment or service. This act also contains a repeal of this provision as truly agreed to and finally passed in CCS/SS/SB 1421 (2026). This provision is identical to a provision in SS/HCS/HBs 2097 & 1905 (2025). This act contains a severability provision. SARAH HASKINS