MD SB671

Office of Cemetery Oversight must conduct a comprehensive study on environmental and public health impacts of deathcare and funeral practices, in consultation with the Maryland Department of Health, Department of Labor, and Department of the Environment

Study covers nine burial/cremation methods including traditional embalming, casket burial, cremation, alkaline hydrolysis (water cremation), and natural organic reduction (body composting)

Analysis must examine land use, soil and water quality, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, public health risks to workers and nearby communities, and accessibility/equity in sustainable deathcare options

Office must conduct facility site visits, collect data from other states, solicit input from industry groups and environmental advocates, and incorporate feedback from culturally and religiously diverse communities through public hearings

Interim report due to the Governor and General Assembly by July 1, 2026; final report with policy recommendations and potential funding mechanisms due by January 1, 2027