All moneys, articles of value, papers, keepsakes, and other similar effects belonging to the deceased individuals in the Coast Guard, not claimed by their legal heirs or next of kin, shall be deposited in safe custody, and if any such moneys, articles of value, papers, keepsakes, or other similar effects so deposited have been, or shall hereafter be, unclaimed for a period of two years from the date of the death of such individual, such articles and effects shall be sold and the proceeds thereof, together with the moneys above mentioned, shall be deposited in the Treasury as miscellaneous receipts. The Secretary shall make diligent inquiry in every instance after the death of such individual to ascertain the whereabouts of his heirs or next of kin, and prescribe necessary regulations to carry out the foregoing provisions. Claims may be presented hereunder at any time within five years after such moneys or proceeds have been so deposited in the Treasury, and, when supported by competent proof in any case after such deposit in the Treasury, shall be certified to Congress for consideration.
(Aug. 4, 1949, ch. 393, 63 Stat. 538, § 507; renumbered § 2710, Pub. L. 115–282, title I, § 116(b), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4226; Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXV [LXXXV], § 8505(a)(23), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4749.)
Historical and Revision NotesDerived from title 34, U.S.C., 1946 ed., § 942 (Mar. 29, 1918, ch. 31, 40 Stat. 499).
Said section provided for the disposition of effects of deceased naval personnel. It is believed similar provisions should be made for Coast Guard personnel.
Said section would in no way be affected. 81st Congress, House Report No. 557.
Editorial Notes
Amendments2021—Pub. L. 116–283 substituted “individuals” for “persons” and substituted “individual” for “person” in two places.
2018—Pub. L. 115–282 renumbered section 507 of this title as this section.