BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 773

By: Davis, Sarah

Public Health

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It has been suggested that allowing alkaline hydrolysis as a form of cremation of human remains would provide a respectful and more environmentally friendly and economical service for both funeral providers and clients. H.B. 773 seeks to allow cremation of human remains by alkaline hydrolysis.

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 rulemaking authority is expressly granted to the Texas Funeral Service Commission in SECTION 4 of this bill.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 773 amends the Health and Safety Code to authorize the Texas Funeral Service Commission (TFSC) to modify cremation procedures and requirements to the extent necessary to allow cremation through alkaline hydrolysis. The bill requires the TFSC by rule to establish the requirements for cremation through alkaline hydrolysis, including rules for the cremation process and for containers used in the process.

H.B. 773 amends the Occupations Code to make conforming changes.

H.B. 773 requires the TFSC, not later than December 1, 2019, 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, 2019.