(a) In any case where there is an unclaimed body or there are remains of indigent persons and it is incumbent on the State or any political subdivision thereof to bury such person found dead, the Chief Medical Examiner or a duly authorized representative shall notify the Division of Social Services of the Department of Health and Social Services to arrange for the burial unless the case falls within the category described in subsection (b) of this section.
(b) When there is a written consent of the next of kin or other legally responsible party, the remains of an indigent person may be cremated or donated for scientific research.