This bill amends several sections of the existing law regarding mortuary science in New Jersey, specifically addressing the definitions and regulations surrounding natural organic reduction, a method of body disposition. Key definitions are introduced, including "natural organic reduction," which refers to the process of converting human remains into a soil-like product, and "natural organic reduction facility," which is a designated space for this process. The bill outlines the requirements for operating such facilities, including the necessity for annual registration with the State Board of Mortuary Science, compliance with environmental regulations, and the requirement for licensed practitioners to oversee operations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that funeral directors inform customers about cemeteries that are authorized to receive remains after natural organic reduction. It establishes a collaborative framework between the State Board of Mortuary Science and the New Jersey Cemetery Board to maintain a list of compliant cemeteries and to promulgate necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of these provisions. The act is set to take effect ten months after its enactment, allowing for preparatory administrative actions to ensure compliance and readiness for the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:7-34, 45:7-38, 45:7-55
Advance Law: 45:7-34, 45:7-38, 45:7-55
Pamphlet Law: 45:7-34, 45:7-38, 45:7-55