This bill amends New Jersey laws to permit the operation of crematories as standalone facilities, separate from cemetery grounds or funeral homes, which marks a significant shift from existing regulations that only allow crematories to operate in conjunction with cemeteries or funeral homes established before December 1, 1971. It introduces the definition of a "cremation company" and expands the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Cemetery and Crematory Board to include oversight of these companies, ensuring compliance with regulations similar to those governing cemetery companies. The bill stipulates that crematories can only be owned or operated by governmental entities, religious organizations, or certified crematory companies, and it outlines the necessary application process for obtaining certificates of authority.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new regulations for crematory companies, including the requirement to adopt reasonable management practices, maintain records of cremations, and prohibits their involvement in the manufacture or sale of urns and funeral home operations. It also mandates that cremation companies be formed as nonprofits and requires the filing of annual reports with the New Jersey Cemetery Board. Additionally, the bill allows for the issuance of 12 permits for crematories that are exempt from certain statutory requirements, thereby expanding access to cremation services while ensuring that these facilities operate under a regulated framework.

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