This bill seeks to legalize and regulate natural organic reduction (NOR) as a method for the disposition of human remains in Minnesota, effective July 1, 2025. It amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to define terms related to NOR, such as "natural organic reduction facility" and "naturally reduced remains," and establishes that arrangements for disposition can include NOR. The bill introduces licensure requirements for NOR facilities, detailing the necessary components for operation, including compliance with local and state regulations and specific equipment for processing remains. It also outlines the licensing process, including application procedures, fees, and penalties for late renewals, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining accurate licensing information.
Additionally, the bill mandates that funeral providers must provide detailed price lists for services related to NOR and prohibits the requirement of caskets for NOR, alkaline hydrolysis, or cremation. It specifies that embalming is not required unless mandated by state or local regulations and establishes that a disposition permit is necessary before any body can be disposed of through these methods. The bill also includes provisions for handling unclaimed remains, requiring facilities to notify the legal rights holder if remains are not claimed within 30 days and allowing for respectful return to the earth after 120 days. Furthermore, it mandates accurate record-keeping for each reduction process, ensuring privacy is safeguarded during the retention period. Overall, the legislation aims to provide a comprehensive framework for NOR in Minnesota while ensuring consumer protection and regulatory oversight.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 149A.01, 149A.02, 149A.03, 149A.65, 149A.70, 149A.71, 149A.72, 149A.73, 149A.74, 149A.93, 149A.94
1st Engrossment: 149A.02, 149A.03, 149A.65, 149A.70, 149A.71, 149A.72, 149A.73, 149A.74, 149A.93, 149A.94
2nd Engrossment: 149A.02, 149A.03, 149A.65, 149A.70, 149A.71, 149A.72, 149A.73, 149A.74, 149A.93, 149A.94