SB 1054
Creating Natural Organic Reduction Act
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, Senate Bill 1054, creates a legal framework for "Natural Organic Reduction" (NOR) in West Virginia, allowing for a process where human remains are transformed into soil through controlled biological decomposition. It establishes standards for facilities and operators, clarifies that NOR is distinct from traditional methods like burial and cremation, and designates the Department of Health as the regulatory authority. The bill aims to provide a lawful and dignified alternative for final disposition of human remains while ensuring public health and safety.
Key provisions
- Authorizes Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) as a legal method of final disposition.
- Designates the Department of Health as the regulatory body for NOR facilities and processes.
- Establishes standards for facility permits, including sanitation, safety, and process monitoring.
- Defines NOR and related terms, such as NOR Facility and NOR Operator.
- Prohibits embalming, cosmetic preparation, or offering funeral services by NOR operators.
- Allows for the return of resulting material to the decedent’s family or use for memorial purposes.
- Clarifies that NOR does not alter existing death certification and vital records requirements.
- Specifies that resulting material is not considered waste.
Who is affected
- Individuals and families seeking final disposition options.
- Funeral service providers (indirectly, through regulatory framework).
- The Department of Health.
- The Board of Funeral Service.
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