Bill > S2851

This bill establishes "natural organic reduction" as a legal burial alternative in the Commonwealth, defining it as the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains into a soil-like product. It amends existing laws to include natural organic reduction alongside funeral directing and embalming, requiring individuals to be trained and certified as "natural organic reduction operators" to conduct this process. Registered funeral directors, embalmers, or apprentices can become certified operators after completing specific coursework, with the Board of Registration in Embalming and Funeral Directing determining satisfactory instruction and additional requirements. The bill also allows corporations to operate natural organic reduction facilities, requiring them to obtain operating licenses from the Division of Occupational Licensure and adhere to regulations set by the Board of Registration in Embalming and Funeral Directing, in consultation with other state departments, covering operational standards, personnel qualifications, environmental safeguards, and testing for pathogens and toxic materials.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Public Health (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2851