The bill amends Chapter 5-33.2 of the General Laws, which governs funeral directors, embalmers, and funeral service establishments, by introducing new definitions and updating terminology to reflect modern practices in body disposition. Key insertions include definitions for "alkaline hydrolysis," "natural organic reduction," and "disposition facility," which broaden the scope of services available in the funeral industry. The bill mandates that no disposition facility can perform alkaline hydrolysis or natural organic reduction without a proper license and outlines the requirements for inspections and license renewals.

It emphasizes the importance of honoring contracts executed by the deceased regarding their funeral arrangements and establishes conditions under which licenses may be revoked or suspended. The bill clarifies the hierarchy of individuals authorized to direct funeral arrangements in the absence of a contract and updates the definition of "domestic partner" to ensure specific qualifications are met. It introduces new regulations for obtaining burial and cremation certificates, requiring that these documents accompany the body to the disposition facility.

The term "crematory" is replaced with "disposition facility" throughout the text to encompass all methods of body disposition. The act is set to take effect on January 30, 2027, aiming to modernize the funeral service industry while ensuring compliance with health standards and respecting the wishes of the deceased.

Statutes affected:
5110: 23-1-54, 23-3-18