PHOENIX — When a loved one passes away, there are a few options when it comes to death planning and honoring their memory such as a cemetery burial, cremation or donating the body to science.
But Rep. Laurin Hendrix wants Arizonans to have a new option — human composting.
The process of converting human remains into soil allows loved ones to plant flowers or even a tree with their loved one's remains.
“I’m just trying to make it an option in Arizona,” Hendrix said. “It’s been done for quite some time; it just hasn’t been legal in Arizona.”
If passed, HB2081 would change the state’s funeral services law, allowing this new eco-friendly alternative way to dispose of a body after death.
“I’m not really advocating for it or against it, I’m just creating the option,” Hendrix said. "If an individual says this is for them, that’s great. If they say, ‘Hey that’s not for me,’ that’s great too. It’s no more than burial versus cremation. Some people prefer one, some prefer the other.”
Human composting is currently legal in seven states — Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, California, New York and Nevada.
The process entails a body being placed in a container, where organic material is added, and in 30 to 60 days the body is turned into fertile soil, enough to fill the back of a pickup truck.
Human composting can cost less than a funeral service and about the same or less than a cremation.
Hendrix said the response has been positive since introducing the bill.
“I have not had any opposition whatsoever, other than a few people that just find it a little awkward, but I would imagine when cremation first came around that probably seemed awkward because historically that’s not what was used,” Hendrix said.
Hendrix said he believes the measure will pass with a unanimous vote. If it does, it’s an option he’ll explore for himself when the time comes.
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.