Bill > HF2769

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for green burials in Minnesota, defining green burial as an environmentally sustainable method of burial that involves using non-toxic embalming (or no embalming), biodegradable caskets or shrouds, and no outer burial containers. The bill increases the percentage of cemetery lot and mausoleum sales proceeds that must be dedicated to permanent care and improvement funds from 20% to 25%. It also sets detailed regulations for green burials in both public and private cemeteries, including specific requirements for burial plot locations that mandate setbacks from property lines, water sources, and flood-prone areas, with precise distance restrictions from wells, springs, watercourses, and drainage systems. The bill specifies burial depth must be between three and a half to four feet, with one meter of cover, and limits burial density to 300 burials per acre over 100 years. Additionally, the bill requires facilities holding bodies awaiting green burial to maintain secure, dignified, and health-conscious environments, with strict guidelines for body refrigeration and employee handling procedures. For public and private cemeteries that allow green burials, the legislation also mandates designated areas for ash spreading, ensuring a comprehensive and regulated approach to alternative burial methods.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2769&ssn=0&y=2025