Bill > SB1057

This bill authorizes "natural burial" or "green burial" in West Virginia, which involves burying human remains without embalming fluids, vaults, or non-biodegradable materials, using instead biodegradable containers or shrouds. The legislation aims to provide families with more environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and religiously or personally aligned burial options, while ensuring public health is protected through clear standards rather than mandating embalming or funeral director involvement, which are not required for natural burials. Cemeteries can choose to offer natural burial without needing additional licenses, and professional licensing boards or trade associations cannot prohibit these practices or impose requirements beyond what is stated in the law, except in cases of documented communicable disease risk or public health emergencies.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=1057&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill