Natural organic reduction; establishment of facilities.
Impact
The study mandated by HJR513 will consider various aspects related to the operation and regulation of natural organic reduction facilities. This includes examining how these facilities could function as cemetery corporations, assessing the demand for such services, and the overall feasibility of establishing these facilities. The outcomes of this study are intended to provide valuable insights into whether natural organic reduction could become an accepted form of dealing with human remains in the state, potentially shaping future regulations and service offerings in the funeral industry.
Summary
HJR513 is a resolution directing the Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers to conduct a study on the establishment of natural organic reduction facilities, colloquially known as green burial or human composting facilities. The resolution defines 'natural organic reduction' as a process that accelerates the conversion of human remains into soil, presenting it as a sustainable alternative to traditional burial and cremation methods. The intention behind this bill is to explore the feasibility and public interest in offering natural organic reduction as a new service option within the Commonwealth.
Conclusion
The Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers is tasked with completing its meetings by November 30, 2023, and presenting its findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly by the first day of the 2024 Regular Session. The report will be accessible on the General Assembly's website, ensuring that stakeholders can review the results of the study and the possible implications for the state's funeral service regulations.
Contention
While the bill does not appear to be contentious on the surface, it will likely prompt discussions about end-of-life practices and environmental concerns. Proponents of natural organic reduction may advocate for its benefits concerning sustainability and environmental responsibility, highlighting the limitations of current burial and cremation practices. Conversely, opponents may raise ethical, cultural, and religious considerations that could arise with the adoption of this alternative method.
Conversion of human remains to basic elements using natural organic reduction permitted, licensure requirements for natural organic reduction facilities established, and licensure fees established.
Provides for the operation and duties of natural organic reduction for the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. Disposition facilities would be used for either cremation or natural organic reduction.
Provides for the operation and duties of natural organic reduction for the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. A disposition facility would be used for either cremation or natural organic reduction.