This bill amends the Revised Code to legally authorize natural organic reduction as a method for the disposition of deceased individuals, alongside traditional methods such as burial and cremation. Key changes include the insertion of terms like "reduction" and "reduction facility" throughout the text, which expands the legal recognition of this new method for handling human remains. The bill outlines the responsibilities of local authorities regarding the disposal of unclaimed bodies and mandates that any cemetery or crematory must comply with specific operational requirements, including the establishment of an endowment care trust. Additionally, it integrates the new method into existing legal frameworks by requiring that any requests for cremation or reduction in cases of suspicious deaths be reported to the coroner.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the regulatory framework surrounding funeral services by introducing new definitions and clarifications related to the handling of remains, including the rights of individuals to assign representatives for the disposition of their remains. It specifies the conditions under which representatives may be disqualified and outlines the process for reassignment. The bill also establishes the Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission to address disputes within the cemetery industry and clarifies the state's responsibilities for the burial, cremation, or reduction of deceased individuals in various circumstances. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and streamline the legal landscape regarding the disposition of human remains while ensuring proper oversight and compliance within the funeral service industry.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9.15, 313.12, 759.01, 1713.36, 1721.06, 1721.18, 1721.21, 2108.15, 2108.70, 2108.72, 2108.75, 2108.82, 2108.83, 2108.84, 2108.85, 2108.86, 2108.87, 2111.13, 2743.51, 2925.01, 3705.01, 3705.17, 3705.18, 3705.19, 3705.20, 4511.451, 4717.01, 4717.03, 4717.04, 4717.06, 4717.07, 4717.08, 4717.11, 4717.13, 4717.14, 4717.15, 4717.20, 4717.21, 4717.22, 4717.23, 4717.24, 4717.25, 4717.26, 4717.27, 4717.28, 4717.29, 4717.30, 4717.36, 4717.41, 4767.05, 5120.45, 5121.11, 5121.53, 5901.25, 5901.26, 5901.27, 5901.29, 5901.32