This bill introduces the concept of natural organic reduction, or controlled supervised decomposition, as a method for handling human remains in New Jersey. It amends existing laws related to mortuary science to include definitions and regulations for natural organic reduction facilities. Key definitions added include "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 within a registered mortuary for this process. The bill also updates the definitions of mortuary science, embalming, and funeral directing to encompass these new practices.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the New Jersey State Board of Mortuary Science to establish rules and regulations governing the operation of natural organic reduction facilities, including minimum requirements for their construction and maintenance. It mandates that any individual or entity operating such a facility must be registered with the board and comply with specific operational standards. The bill also outlines the necessary oversight by licensed practitioners of mortuary science or funeral directors during the natural organic reduction process. Overall, this legislation aims to modernize the handling of human remains while ensuring public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:7-34, 45:7-38, 45:7-55