The "Live Free and Die Free Act," designated as bill SB 53-FN, establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the practice of Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) of human remains. It introduces Chapter 325-B to current law, defining essential terms such as "natural organic reduction," "NOR facility," and "natural organic reduction authority." The bill stipulates that only licensed NOR authorities can operate these facilities, which must adhere to building codes and environmental regulations. Key insertions include the establishment of grounds for denying or refusing to renew a NOR authority's license, the process for license reinstatement, and penalties for operating without a license, classified as a class B felony. Additionally, a medical examiner's certificate is required before initiating the NOR process to ensure compliance with public health laws.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of NOR authorities, including the proper handling and documentation of human remains, the requirement for a NOR authorization form, and the retention of records for at least seven years. It prohibits the sale or use of NOR soil for human food production and mandates minimum sanitation standards and inspection procedures for NOR facilities. The legislation amends existing laws to incorporate NOR into the regulatory framework for funeral directors and embalmers, allowing for the licensing of NOR facilities and establishing fees for pre-NOR examinations. The fiscal impact of the bill is indeterminable, with potential revenue and expenditure increases estimated between $10,000 and $100,000, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5-C:68, 325:8-a, 611-B:27