(A) A crematory authority and funeral establishment may require a decedent's agent to purchase an alternative container to contain the human remains before cremation but may not require the agent to purchase a casket before cremation for viewing or the actual cremation.
(B) No crematory authority may accept human remains from a funeral establishment unless the remains are delivered in a casket, cremation casket, or an alternative container unless the funeral establishment has made arrangements with the crematory authority to provide the casket, cremation casket, or an alternative container before cremation. Only a licensed crematory may perform cremations of human remains in this State and only a licensed funeral director or a funeral establishment may sell preneed and at-need merchandise.
(C) For purposes of this section, "alternative container" means a receptacle other than a casket, in which human remains are transported to a crematory and placed in a cremation chamber for cremation. An alternative container or cremation casket must be:
(a) composed of readily combustible materials suitable for cremation;
(b) resistant to leakage or spillage;
(c) rigid enough for handling with ease;
(d) able to provide protection for the health, safety, and personal integrity of crematory personnel.
HISTORY: 1994 Act No. 435, Section 1.
Structure South Carolina Code of Laws
Title 32 - Contracts and Agents
Chapter 8 - Cremation Authorizations And Procedures
Section 32-8-300. Short title.
Section 32-8-305. Definitions.
Section 32-8-310. Crematory; compliance with local zoning regulations.
Section 32-8-315. Execution of a cremation authorization form.
Section 32-8-320. Persons who may serve as a decedent's agent; authorize cremation.
Section 32-8-325. Prerequisites; authority; and receipt of instructions for cremation.
Section 32-8-330. Crematory to retain permanent records.
Section 32-8-335. "Alternative container".
Section 32-8-340. Conditions for cremation, time period prior to cremation.
Section 32-8-350. Crematory's liability for damages.
Section 32-8-355. Human remains; presence of pacemaker.
Section 32-8-365. Solicitation.
Section 32-8-370. Comprehensive cremation statute.
Section 32-8-375. Continuing education courses for removal and disposition of pacemakers.
Section 32-8-380. Promulgate regulations.
Section 32-8-385. Requirement for at least one trained individual in performing cremations.