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Bill

SB 473

AN ACT CONCERNING GREEN BURIALS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Saud Anwar

Connecticut bill legalizes and regulates green burials using biodegradable materials and no embalming to provide environmentally sustainable funeral alternatives.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Public Health
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Bill Summary · SB 473

Legislative bill overview

SB 473 would establish legal framework and regulations for green burials in Connecticut, allowing environmentally-conscious funeral practices that avoid traditional embalming chemicals and use biodegradable caskets or shrouds. The bill aims to provide Connecticut residents with sustainable end-of-life options while maintaining health and safety standards through state oversight.

Why is this important

Green burials respond to growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible alternatives to conventional burial practices, which can involve formaldehyde-based embalming and non-biodegradable materials. This legislation could reduce environmental impact from funeral practices while expanding consumer choice in a heavily regulated industry that has historically had limited alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden vs. environmental benefit: Determining appropriate oversight levels without creating excessive compliance costs that would limit access to green burial options or increase funeral prices
  • Cemetery land use: Questions about whether existing cemeteries have suitable land for green burials or if new dedicated green burial grounds are needed, affecting property availability and zoning
  • Health and safety standards: Balancing environmental goals with public health requirements around soil contamination, groundwater protection, and disease transmission risks in different Connecticut soil conditions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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