Bill > SB0135

This bill authorizes alkaline hydrolysis as a legal method for disposing of animal remains in Indiana, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for this disposal technique. The bill defines alkaline hydrolysis as a process that dissolves animal remains using water and chemical solutions like potassium or sodium hydroxide, with heat and pressure breaking down the remains into bone fragments and a sterile liquid effluent. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management is required to adopt rules for wastewater, effluent, and discharge standards, including distinguishing alkaline hydrolysis from combustion-based methods and establishing neutralization and discharge requirements. The state board of animal health must develop regulations covering equipment, biosecurity, operator training, and handling of residual bone material. The bill adds alkaline hydrolysis to the list of permissible animal remains disposal methods and stipulates that facilities using this method cannot be classified as incinerators or crematories for zoning purposes. Local units can regulate the location of alkaline hydrolysis disposal plants but cannot impose more restrictive zoning requirements than those applied to comparable veterinary or agricultural waste-handling facilities. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and provides a structured approach to integrating this disposal method into Indiana's existing waste management regulations.

Business and Industry

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/135/details