S.B. 1021 Summary

• Authorizes alkaline hydrolysis as an alternative method for treating and disposing of human remains, aligning with traditional Native Hawaiian burial practices.

• Defines alkaline hydrolysis as the reduction of human remains to bone fragments using heat, pressure, water, and base chemical agents in a licensed facility.

• Amends multiple Hawaii Revised Statutes sections to include alkaline hydrolysis alongside cremation as an approved disposal method for unclaimed bodies, anatomical gifts, and indigent burials.

• Requires the department of health to adopt administrative rules to implement the provisions of this Act.

• Effective date: July 1, 2060.