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NJ bill seeking standalone cremation facilities advances for assembly vote
The bill seeks to amend current laws to permit crematories to operate independently of cemetery grounds or funeral home properties, which is currently not allowed in the state.
Introduced on May 2, 2024, by Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak and Committee Chairman Sterley Stanley / Image- X (@CoHNAOfficial)
In a significant milestone for the Hindu and Indian American communities in New Jersey, a new bill, which allows for the establishment of standalone cremation facilities, has passed the Assembly Regulated Professions Committee and is now headed to the full Assembly for consideration.
The bill seeks to amend current laws to permit crematories to operate independently of cemetery grounds or funeral home properties, which is currently not allowed in the state.
Introduced on May 2, 2024, by Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak and Committee Chairman Sterley Stanley, Bill A4216 aims to provide religious communities, such as Hindus and other groups that practice cremation, with dedicated facilities that honor their traditions.
Another important step to victory for the Hindu and Indian American community in New Jersey! A great example of grassroots advocacy and collaboration across the community.
— CoHNA (Coalition of Hindus of North America) (@CoHNAOfficial) June 3, 2024
Bill A4216 (which allows for stand alone cremation facilities in NJ) just passed the Assembly Regulated… pic.twitter.com/3tMF9ytYj0
The bill allows Crematories tobe owned or operated by a governmental entity, a religious corporation, or a cremation company, which must be listed as a nonprofit.
It also mandates crematory companies to file their operational details with the New Jersey Cemetery Board, post regulations and service charges, and obtain municipal consent for establishment or enlargement.
Additionally, the legislation requires companies to maintain detailed records of each cremation and prohibits them from manufacturing or selling urns or other goods used as a vessel for cremains or from being involved in the conduct of any funeral home or the business or profession of mortuary science.
If passed, the New Jersey Cemetery Board will issue 12 permits through an application process for the operation of standalone crematories. These crematories will be exempt from certain statutory requirements.
The Coalition of Hindu Organizations of North America (CoHNA) which played a pivotal role in the bill's advancement, working alongside over 25 community organizations, temples, and senior associations welcomed the news.. Dhiren Amin and the Indian Business Association have been recognized for their leadership in advocating for the bill, with Amin publicly acknowledging the groups that participated in the advocacy efforts at the State Capitol.
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