The proposed General Assembly Committee Bill No. 6257 seeks to authorize natural organic reduction (NOR) as a method for the disposition of human remains in Connecticut, effective October 1, 2025. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "cemetery corporation," "holding facility," and "natural organic reduction facility." It outlines the responsibilities of cemetery corporations operating NOR facilities, which include maintaining cleanliness, ensuring privacy, and securing the facilities. A natural organic reduction permit, issued by the Commissioner of Public Health, is required, along with a signed authorization from the deceased's immediate family or their agent. The bill emphasizes the importance of proper identification and documentation during the delivery and handling of remains, which must be transported in a decomposable container.
Furthermore, the bill establishes regulations for the respectful handling of remains, including prohibiting the removal of remains from their container without proper authorization and ensuring that transfers to alternative containers are conducted with dignity. It mandates that cemetery corporations submit detailed plans and obtain necessary approvals to operate NOR facilities, and that employees be certified. The bill also addresses the final disposition of remains that are unclaimed within sixty days post-process. The Department of Public Health is tasked with adopting regulations to implement these provisions by January 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to provide a new, environmentally friendly option for end-of-life arrangements while ensuring the respectful treatment of human remains.