This bill amends the Funeral Services Licensing Act in Oklahoma by updating definitions and modifying license renewal procedures. Notably, it introduces the term "natural organic reduction," which refers to the process of converting human remains to soil using heat, water, and organic material. Additionally, the definition of "cremation" is expanded to include this new method alongside traditional methods. The bill also clarifies the definition of a "crematory" to include facilities that utilize natural organic reduction vessels.
Furthermore, the bill modifies the license renewal process by establishing a renewal fee of Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00) for funeral directors and embalmers. It stipulates that licenses will expire on December 31st each year and can be renewed without further examination if the fee is paid. However, if a funeral director or embalmer fails to renew their license for three years or more, they must pass a written and oral examination to be reinstated. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2026.