Bill > SB368

This bill expands the legal definition of cremation in New Mexico to include alternative body reduction methods beyond traditional flame-based cremation. Specifically, the bill introduces two new types of cremation processes: alkaline hydrolysis (a water-based chemical method) and natural organic reduction (a biological process), which are collectively termed "nontraditional cremation" in contrast to traditional flame cremation. The legislation amends several state statutes to update definitions and licensure requirements for funeral establishments and crematories to accommodate these new methods. Key changes include requiring that cremation authorization documents now specify the type of cremation intended, adding definitions for new cremation processes, and updating crematory licensing requirements to include facilities for nontraditional cremation methods. The bill aims to provide more options for final body disposition while maintaining regulatory oversight of these processes. By broadening the legal definition of cremation, the legislation recognizes emerging technologies and alternative approaches to body reduction that may be more environmentally friendly or align with different cultural or personal preferences for end-of-life disposition.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=368&year=25