The legislation proposes amendments to existing laws regarding the treatment of human remains by introducing alkaline hydrolysis, which is presented as a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative. This effectively shifts the regulatory framework overseen by the Department of Health to include these traditional methods, thereby promoting their use as a formal option for disposal of human remains. Furthermore, it may alleviate the space constraints of cemeteries by requiring smaller burial plots and eliminating the need for costly caskets.
Summary
Senate Bill 2593 seeks to include traditional Native Hawaiian burial practices in the treatment and disposal of human remains, specifically allowing alkaline hydrolysis as a method. The bill addresses a growing interest in these practices and recognizes the cultural significance of iwi kupuna (ancestral bones). By incorporating these practices, the bill aims to support both Native Hawaiian traditions and environmental sustainability by offering methods that are less harmful to the environment compared to traditional embalming techniques.
Contention
Opponents of the bill may express concerns regarding the implementation of traditional practices in a modern context, particularly regarding the adequacy of the proposed regulatory framework. There may be questions about the safety and efficacy of alkaline hydrolysis as compared to existing methods. Additionally, the bill's focus on Native Hawaiian practices may lead to discussions about the balance between cultural preservation and the introduction of contemporary burial methods. The lack of current Health Department rules accommodating these practices may also spark debates about oversight and standardization.