A bill that would legalize and regulate human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, is headed to Governor Brian Kemp’s desk after passing both chambers of the Georgia legislature with overwhelming support. The Georgia House of Representatives approved Senate Bill 241 by a decisive 157-4 vote, following the Senate’s near-unanimous approval earlier in March. Senate Bill 241, championed by Senator Rick Williams (R-Milledgeville), a funeral home director, establishes guidelines and regulations for the process of human composting. During a committee hearing, Senator Williams described the practice simply as “human composting,” a description that elicited lighthearted comparisons to the television show “Breaking Bad” and the classic song “Dry Bones.” Beyond the humor, Williams emphasized the importance of the legislation for both community safety and the dignified treatment of the deceased. He cited a concerning case in Colorado involving improperly disposed remains that resulted in a significant public health risk. According to Williams, the controlled process of composting human remains yields safe and sanitary soil. This soil can then be returned to the family of the deceased, allowing them to use it as they see fit, including enriching their gardens. The bill now awaits Governor Kemp’s signature to become law.
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