2026 Regular Session
SB 1057
Authorizing green burial and natural burial
In Committee
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill authorizes green burial and natural burial practices in West Virginia. It defines ‘natural burial’ as a disposition of human remains without embalming fluids or non-biodegradable materials, and permits cemeteries to offer these options. The bill also clarifies that funeral director licensure is not required for natural burial and limits regulatory authority to prevent professional control over burial practices.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘natural burial’ as burial without embalming, vaults, or liners.
- Permits cemeteries to offer green burial options without additional licensure.
- States that funeral director licensure is not required for natural burial.
- Establishes minimum public health standards, primarily focused on preventing communicable disease risks.
- Limits regulatory authority to prevent professional or trade-association control over burial practices.
- Allows cemeteries to adopt reasonable operational rules for natural burial.
- Prohibits requirements for embalming, vaults, or non-biodegradable containers.
- Expresses the legislature’s intent to preserve family choice and religious liberty.
Who is affected
- Families seeking alternative burial options
- Cemeteries
- Funeral directors
- West Virginia residents
- The Department of Health
Notable changes
- Authorizes natural burial, which was previously not explicitly permitted in West Virginia law.
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