SB 2828 Summary

• Legalizes alkaline hydrolysis (water cremation) as a method for treating human remains in Hawaii, in addition to traditional flame cremation, effective January 1, 2050.

• Requires alkaline hydrolysis facilities to obtain Department of Health certification and operators to complete alkaline hydrolysis operator training and comply with Hawaii Administrative Rules for mortuaries and crematories.

• Establishes detailed technical standards for hydrolysis equipment including operation at 302 degrees Fahrenheit, horizontal positioning, cranial targeting agitation, and wrapping remains in bioplastic or natural fibers.

• Requires sterile wastewater from hydrolysis facilities to be discharged into county sewer systems as approved by appropriate counties.

• Updates funeral disposition statutes to include alkaline hydrolysis alongside cremation for unclaimed bodies, anatomical gifts, and coroner-ordered dispositions, with the same $800 maximum cost reimbursement.