Disposition of human remains: alkaline hydrolysis.

Under existing law, the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau licenses and regulates crematoria and various professions relating to the disposition of human remains. Existing law defines cremation, residue, cemetery, and crematory, and requires a written acknowledgment containing specified information from the person entitled to control the disposition of cremated remains. Violation of these provisions is a misdemeanor. This bill would define "alkaline hydrolysis," as specified, would change the definition of cremation to include alkaline hydrolysis, and would make conforming changes to other definitions. The bill would require a written acknowledgment containing specified information from the person authorized to control the remains to be disposed of through alkaline hydrolysis. The bill would require the bureau, not later than July 1, 2011, to adopt regulations for the safe operation of alkaline hydrolysis chambers. By expanding the definition of a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.