This bill amends New Jersey law to permit the operation of crematories as standalone facilities, independent of cemetery grounds or funeral home properties. It introduces the definition of a "cremation company," which refers to any person or entity that owns or operates a crematory. The New Jersey Cemetery and Crematory Board's jurisdiction is expanded to include oversight of these cremation companies, ensuring they adhere to regulations akin to those governing cemetery operations. The bill also requires both cemetery and crematory companies to file their regulations and service charges with the board prior to engaging with the public.

Furthermore, the legislation stipulates that new crematories established after the bill's effective date must be owned or operated by governmental entities, religious organizations, or certified crematory companies. It outlines the application process for obtaining a certificate of authority to operate a crematory, emphasizing the need for public notice and community-based service requirements. Additional provisions include the formation of cremation companies as nonprofits, the filing of annual reports, and the maintenance of cremation records. The bill also prohibits crematories from selling urns or conducting funeral home operations, while allowing the New Jersey Cemetery Board to issue permits for crematories that are exempt from certain statutory requirements, provided they have municipal consent.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:27-2, 45:27-4, 45:27-5, 45:27-6, 45:27-7, 45:27-18, 45:27-22, 45:27-25, 45:27-26, 45:27-35, 45:27-36, 45:27-37, 45:27-40, 45:27-41