Oregon House Unanimously Advances Bill to Lower Crematory Incineration Temperature
In a rare display of bipartisan unity, the Oregon House voted unanimously on Tuesday to advance House Bill 3729, which aims to reduce the incineration temperature for human and animal remains. The bill proposes lowering the mandatory cremation temperature from 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit to 1,600 degrees—a change deemed necessary by crematory operators across the state.
Oregon has lagged behind many states in adopting this lower temperature requirement, and the current standard has been seen as unnecessarily high. Operators argue that reaching 1,800 degrees can be challenging, particularly for smaller animals, and often results in increased natural gas consumption and emissions. The bill would also prevent the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and regional air quality control authorities from imposing any temperature regulations above the new threshold.
During the House discussions, a light-hearted atmosphere prevailed, with lawmakers exchanging puns related to the bill’s subject matter. “We’ve had a lot of hot topics on the floor today,” joked Rep. Mark Owens, R-Crane, urging a vote in favor of the bill. Similarly, House Speaker Pro Tempore David Gomberg quipped, “We’re burning up time here, colleagues,” underscoring the comradery among lawmakers on this non-controversial legislation.
Ultimately, the bill passed with 55 votes in favor and none against, with five lawmakers excused from the vote. The lead sponsor, Rep. Emily McIntire, R-Eagle Point, expressed optimism about the strong support, stating, “See how united we can become.” The bill will now move on to the Senate for further consideration.
In a moment that showcases cooperation amidst political divisions, House Bill 3729 represents a significant step forward for Oregon’s crematory practices.
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