Bill > S3007

This bill allows for a new method of human remains disposition called "natural organic reduction" or "controlled supervised decomposition," which involves converting human remains into a soil-like product through a contained, accelerated decomposition process. The bill amends existing mortuary science laws to define and regulate this new disposition method by establishing requirements for natural organic reduction facilities, including mandatory registration with the State Board of Mortuary Science, annual inspections, and oversight by licensed mortuary science practitioners. The bill requires these facilities to obtain approval from the Department of Environmental Protection, particularly regarding the facility's distance from drinking water wells, and mandates that funeral directors inform customers about cemetery options for placing remains after natural organic reduction. Additionally, the bill empowers the State Board of Mortuary Science, the New Jersey Cemetery Board, and the Department of Environmental Protection to create specific rules and regulations governing the implementation of this new disposition method. The new process will become available 10 months after the bill's enactment, with provisions for preliminary administrative preparations to be made in advance.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3007