NJ A4085

Legalizes "natural organic reduction" (also called "controlled supervised decomposition") as a method of human remains disposition, defined as the contained, accelerated conversion of human remains into a soil-like product

Requires natural organic reduction facilities to be located within or on property of a registered mortuary, obtain annual registration with the State Board of Mortuary Science ($25 fee), and pass inspection by the Department of Environmental Protection before opening

Mandates that all natural organic reduction operations be supervised by a licensed practitioner of mortuary science or funeral director

Establishes environmental safety requirements including a minimum setback distance of 500 feet or 200 days' time of travel from any drinking water well

Requires funeral directors to inform customers in writing about cemeteries that can receive remains after natural organic reduction, with the New Jersey Cemetery Board maintaining a list of compliant cemeteries

Takes effect on the first day of the 10th month following enactment (approved September 11, 2025)