Is Aquamation Legal in Texas?
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is a relatively new method of body disposition that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a water-based process that uses a high pH solution and temperature to dissolve the body's tissues, leaving behind only bone ash.
Legality of Aquamation in Texas
Aquamation is legal in Texas. In fact, Texas was one of the first states in the United States to pass legislation allowing for the use of this method of body disposition. The Texas Funeral Service Act was amended in 2019 to include aquamation as a legal option for families.
Benefits of Aquamation
There are several benefits to choosing aquamation over traditional burial or cremation. Some of these benefits include:
- Environmentally friendly: Aquamation is considered to be a much more environmentally friendly option than traditional cremation. Cremation releases harmful emissions into the atmosphere, while aquamation uses a closed-loop system that produces no harmful byproducts.
- Gentler process: Aquamation is a much gentler process than traditional cremation. Cremation can be a very hot and intense process, while aquamation is a much more gentle and peaceful process.
- Faster process: Aquamation is a much faster process than traditional burial or cremation. The entire process can be completed in a matter of hours, while traditional burial or cremation can take several days.
- Affordable option: Aquamation is often a more affordable option than traditional burial or cremation. This is because there is no need for a casket or other burial items.
How to Choose Aquamation
If you are considering aquamation as an option for body disposition, there are a few things you need to do. First, you need to find a funeral home that offers aquamation services. Not all funeral homes offer this option, so you may need to do some research.
Once you have found a funeral home that offers aquamation services, you need to discuss your options with the funeral director. The funeral director will be able to explain the process to you and answer any questions you may have.
You will also need to make arrangements for the return of the cremated remains. The cremated remains from aquamation are typically returned to the family in a small urn.
FAQs
How to find a funeral home that offers aquamation services?
You can search online for funeral homes in your area that offer aquamation services. You can also contact the Texas Funeral Service Commission for a list of licensed funeral homes in your state.
How much does aquamation cost?
The cost of aquamation varies depending on the funeral home and the specific services that are included. However, aquamation is often a more affordable option than traditional burial or cremation.
How long does the aquamation process take?
The aquamation process typically takes 2-3 hours.
How are the cremated remains from aquamation returned to the family?
The cremated remains from aquamation are typically returned to the family in a small urn.
Is aquamation legal in all states?
Aquamation is legal in most states in the United States. However, there are a few states where it is not yet legal.
I hope this blog post has been informative. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Additional Resources
- Texas Funeral Service Commission [invalid URL removed]
National Funeral Directors Association Choice Cremation