This bill establishes regulations for the natural organic reduction of human remains in Iowa, defining it as the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains to soil. It mandates that any establishment performing this process must be licensed by the board of mortuary science and outlines the necessary components of such establishments, including aerobic reduction vessels, mechanical processing devices, and refrigerated holding facilities. To obtain a license, applicants must pay a fee of $425, provide proof of business ownership and liability insurance, and undergo an initial inspection by the board. The bill also stipulates that licenses are nontransferable, valid for one year, and subject to renewal with a late fee for delayed applications.

Additionally, the bill sets forth strict guidelines for the acceptance and processing of remains, requiring that they be delivered in suitable containers and accompanied by written authorization from an authorized individual. It prohibits the acceptance of remains if there are disputes regarding their disposition or if the authorization is questionable. The bill emphasizes the need for privacy during the natural organic reduction process, prohibits the commingling of remains, and outlines record-keeping requirements for establishments, including detailed logs of each reduction performed. Finally, it mandates that the board adopt rules to implement these provisions effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 147.13, 147.74, 156A.2