Bill > H5110

This bill provides a comprehensive update to Rhode Island's laws regarding funeral services and human remains disposition, specifically expanding the legal framework to include natural organic reduction (NOR) and alkaline hydrolysis as alternative methods to traditional cremation. The bill amends several existing statutes to define and regulate these new disposition methods, adding definitions for terms like "natural organic reduction" (which is described as the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil) and "alkaline hydrolysis" (the reduction of human remains to bone fragments using heat, pressure, water, and chemical agents). The legislation updates licensing requirements, fee structures, and administrative processes for funeral establishments and disposition facilities to accommodate these new methods, ensuring that they are subject to the same regulatory oversight as traditional cremation. The bill also modifies permit and certificate requirements for human remains disposition, ensuring that all new methods of body disposition follow similar legal protocols regarding waiting periods, medical examiner certificates, and proper documentation. Importantly, the bill introduces comprehensive definitions and regulations that treat natural organic reduction and alkaline hydrolysis as legitimate disposition methods alongside traditional cremation, reflecting evolving societal attitudes toward end-of-life practices. The changes will take effect on January 30, 2027, providing ample time for implementation and adjustment by funeral service professionals.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

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