BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1155

By: Davis, Sarah

Public Health

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Interested parties contend that making the alkaline hydrolysis method of treating a body currently used in medical schools available for funeral purposes would provide a more environmentally-friendly and economical service for both funeral providers and clients. H.B. 1155 seeks to provide for the use of alkaline hydrolysis in the cremation process.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

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

H.B. 1155 amends the Health and Safety Code to authorize the Texas Funeral Service Commission to modify cremation procedures and requirements to the extent necessary to allow cremation through alkaline hydrolysis.

H.B. 1155 amends the Occupations Code to make conforming changes.

H.B. 1155 requires the commission, not later than December 1, 2017, to adopt rules to implement the bill's provisions.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2017.