MT HJ27

Requests Legislative Council designate an interim committee to study mortician and funeral service laws, with findings due by September 15, 2026 and reported to the 70th Legislature

Examines existing statutes on final disposition of deceased human bodies, which are currently spread across at least seven different titles in Montana Code Annotated

Researches new final disposition technologies not currently addressed in Montana law, including natural organic reduction and alkaline hydrolysis

Requires collaboration with stakeholders including mortuary and crematory professionals, Montana's federally recognized tribal governments, the Board of Funeral Service, Montana Funeral Directors Association, and public health experts

Directs proposed legislation to update terminology, modernize archaic language, and create a framework for adding new disposition methods in future sessions