The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 5-33.2, which governs funeral directors, embalmers, and funeral service establishments. It introduces new definitions for "alkaline hydrolysis," "natural organic reduction," and "disposition facility," thereby broadening the range of services available in the funeral industry. The terminology is updated by replacing "crematory" with "disposition facility," reflecting the inclusion of alternative methods for the disposition of human remains.

The bill mandates that no disposition facility can operate without a license from the department and outlines the requirements for inspections and license renewals. It emphasizes the importance of honoring contracts executed by the deceased regarding funeral goods and services, while detailing conditions for license revocation or suspension.

Additionally, the bill updates regulations concerning the handling of deceased bodies and fetuses, including the introduction of burial-transit permits that must be prepared within seven days of death. It establishes that a burial-transit permit from another state is valid for final disposition in Rhode Island and outlines requirements for disinterment permits.

The bill sets forth new regulations for the disposition of human remains, requiring a 24-hour waiting period post-death before any disposition actions can occur, unless the deceased had a contagious disease. It mandates the issuance of a cremation certificate, alkaline hydrolysis certificate, or natural organic reduction certificate by the Rhode Island office of state medical examiners prior to any disposition. The act is scheduled to take effect on January 30, 2028.

Statutes affected:
7070: 23-1-54, 23-3-18