(A) As used in this section, notwithstanding the definition of the term set forth in section 2743.51 of the Revised Code, “funeral expenses” means the payment of cremation or burial services of the decedent.

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(B) Before acting on an application for an award of reparations that has been filed pursuant to section 2743.56 of the Revised Code, the attorney general may make an emergency award for funeral expenses if at the time the application for emergency funeral expenses is made the claimant is the party responsible for the victim’s funeral expenses and the information that is then available to the attorney general supports a finding of reasonable belief that all of the following criteria are met:

(1) That the requirements for a final award under division (C) of section 2743.59 of the Revised Code may be satisfied;

(2) The decedent and the claimant are indigent.

(3) The claimant will suffer undue hardship if immediate economic relief is not obtained.

(C) An emergency award for funeral expenses under this section may only be made before cremation or burial of the decedent. Payment for funeral expenses under this section shall be the full award for such expenses arising from the death of the victim. No additional payment for funeral expenses shall be made to the funeral home, to the claimant applicant, or to any other claimant. A determination under this section does not preclude the attorney general from determining eligibility and awarding reparations for any expenses other than those related to the funeral.

(D) If, after a payment of emergency funeral expenses is awarded under this section, a final determination is made that no compensation on the application for an award of reparations will be made, the claimant or victim may be required to repay the entire emergency award.