MD HB698

Transfers regulatory authority over crematories and reduction facilities (natural organic reduction/human composting) from the Office of Cemetery Oversight to the State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors, effective October 1, 2026

Renames the board to "State Board of Morticians, Funeral Directors, and Crematories" and reduces the Advisory Council on Cemetery Operations from 12 to 11 members by eliminating the crematory representative position

Modifies board quorum requirements to be based on "then-serving appointed members" rather than "full authorized membership" and clarifies that actions may be taken by simple majority vote of the quorum

Expands grounds for Governor removal of board members to include "repeated and unexplained absences" and "any just and reasonable cause," removing the previous requirement for Secretary recommendation after two absences

Establishes new registration and permit requirements for crematory operators and reduction facility operators under the Health Occupations Article, including mandatory contamination testing programs for reduction facilities and prohibitions on natural organic reduction for embalmed remains or remains with certain infectious diseases