NH considers lifting ban on chemical cremation

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A chemical cremation process that dissolves bodies into a soapy liquid is gaining support in mortuary science, and more than 10 states, including neighboring Maine, have already adopted the practice, the head of a group representing New Hampshire funeral homes told the state Senate on Wednesday.

Peter Morin of the New Hampshire Funeral Homes Association told lawmakers that with sufficient regulatory oversight, the process known as alkaline hydrolysis is a safe and acceptable method for disposing of human remains.