Publications & Working Papers
Research outputs from the Unclaimed Lives Research Initiative, including working papers, policy briefs, and data reports.
Publications In Progress
No publications are currently available. The research initiative is in its data collection and analysis phase. Check back for forthcoming working papers and research briefs as the project advances through its research milestones.
Forthcoming Working Papers
Demographic Patterns in Florida Unclaimed Decedents: A Preliminary Analysis
This paper will present the first systematic analysis of demographic characteristics — including age, race, gender, and socioeconomic indicators — of unclaimed decedents across Florida's 67 counties. Drawing on public records obtained from medical examiner offices and county indigent burial programs, the analysis will identify statistically significant patterns and disparities in who goes unclaimed.
The Data Gap: Unclaimed vs. Unidentified Remains in Florida Public Records
This paper will examine the critical distinction between unclaimed and unidentified remains in Florida's public records systems, documenting the absence of standardized tracking mechanisms and proposing a framework for improved data collection. The analysis will compare existing national databases for unidentified remains with the lack of equivalent resources for unclaimed individuals.
Additional working papers, policy briefs, and data reports will be published as the research initiative progresses. Subscribe to updates or check back periodically for new publications.