BILL ANALYSIS
By: Gattis
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
In traditional Judeo-Christian religious denominations, columbaria are used to house the cremated remains of the deceased. Traditionally these columbaria are housed in churches and/or meeting places of organized religious societies. Recently, alumni organizations of certain private and independent institutions of higher education have asked that columbaria be established on specific campuses. The purpose behind their request is to honor the wishes of distinguished alumni that would like to have their remains forever housed on the grounds of their alma mater.
House Bill 1614 allows private and independent colleges and universities, as defined in the Education Code, who wish to do so, to establish and use a columbarium on their campuses. To qualify under this Act, an institution must be properly accredited, religiously affiliated, and have a place of worship located on the campus.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
HB 1614 creates an exception to the prohibition of establishing or operating a cemetery or using any land for the interment of remains in certain areas. The bill allows for the establishment and use of a columbarium on the campus of certain private or independent institutions of higher education.
EFFECTIVE DATE
September 1, 2007.