This bill amends Chapter 5-33.2 of the General Laws, which pertains to funeral directors/embalmers and funeral service establishments. It introduces the definition of "Disposition facility" as a place for reducing human remains by cremation or natural organic reduction (NOR), and "Natural organic reduction facility" as the location where NOR occurs. The bill mandates that disposition facilities be inspected at least twice a year and requires these facilities to obtain a license from the department before conducting cremations or NOR. It also outlines the process for handling human remains, including the need for permits and consents, rules for processing remains, and the authority to dispose of abandoned remains. Additionally, the bill specifies the order of priority for individuals who can make decisions about funeral arrangements and the disposition of remains in the absence of a contract.

Section 2 of the bill updates the fees payable to the Department of Health, including those related to funeral directors/embalmers and funeral service establishments. It introduces a new fee structure for various professional licenses and services in healthcare and food service industries. The bill includes an insertion to include "natural organic reduction disposition" alongside cremation certificates issued by the Medical Examiner. It also specifies fees for health care facilities, assisted living residences, nursing assistant registration, and other services. Lastly, the bill amends Section 23-3-18 concerning vital records, requiring a 24-hour waiting period after death before cremation or NOR can occur, unless the deceased died of a contagious or infectious disease, and necessitates a burial permit and a cremation or NOR certificate from the Rhode Island office of state medical examiners. The bill is set to take effect on January 30, 2026.

Statutes affected:
7212  SUB A: 23-1-54, 23-3-18
7212: 23-1-54, 23-3-18