IN SB0022

Expands the legal definition of "cremation" to include alkaline hydrolysis, a water-based process that dissolves human remains using potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, or a combination with heat, leaving only bone fragments and liquid

Requires the State Board of Funeral and Cemetery Service to adopt rules by July 1, 2026 governing alkaline hydrolysis facilities, chambers, equipment standards, transportation of remains, and supervision by licensed funeral directors

Prohibits crematory authorities from requiring caskets or embalming for alkaline hydrolysis, and mandates that hydrolyzed effluent (the resulting liquid) be disposed of in accordance with wastewater regulations

Amends definitions across multiple Indiana Code sections related to emergency management, property tax, health, township assistance, anatomical gifts, trusts, and criminal law to incorporate the expanded cremation definition

Effective July 1, 2026, with an emergency declaration requiring the Board to adopt implementing rules upon passage