Genda’s Cremation Bill Heads to Senate

The Indiana House of Representatives passed State Rep. Mark Genda’s (R-Frankfort) legislation to include an ecofriendly alternative to traditional cremation.

In Indiana, the dissolution of human remains is limited to traditional burial or cremation. House Bill 1044 would add the process of alkaline hydrolysis, which uses water, a chemical solution and heat.

“Hoosiers deserve options when it comes to how they are laid to rest and alkaline hydrolysis is just another choice that should be available,” Genda said. “This solution allows families to honor their loved one’s final wish while reducing their environmental impact.”

Traditional cremation can release 534 pounds of carbon emissions. Since 2003, alkaline hydrolysis has been legalized in 28 states as a greener alternative to cremation, reducing energy use by 90% and releasing no direct emissions of greenhouse gases or mercury during the process.

House Bill 1044 now heads to the Senate for consideration. To learn more and follow legislative proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.

Genda represents House District 41, which includes portions of Boone, Clinton, Montgomery and Tippecanoe counties.