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Natural Organic Reduction

Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) Now Legal in Minnesota

Now that Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) became legal in Minnesota on July 1, we wanted to provide you with some resources for when you have families reach out to you about this new option for disposition.

The New Law

Effective July 1, 2025, Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) - also known as human composting or terramation - is now legal in Minnesota. This follows the passage of HF2669, making Minnesota the 11th state to legalize this disposition method (it’s currently legal in 13 states).

Current Minnesota NOR Facility Status

While NOR is now legal, there is currently no operating NOR facility in Minnesota. However, Return Home, the nation's leading provider of human composting services, has announced they are actively planning to open a new facility in our state. Until a Minnesota facility becomes operational, families interested in NOR can access these services through Return Home's existing Washington location, which requires shipping the decedent.

When Families Call About NOR - Step-by-Step Guide

If a family contacts your funeral home inquiring about or requesting NOR services, here's what to do:

1. Explain Current Options

  • Clarify whether this is a pre-need inquiry or an at-need situation

  • Inform them that while NOR is legal, there is no facility currently operating in Minnesota

  • Explain that Return Home is planning to open a Minnesota facility, but no timeline has been announced

  • Let them know that current NOR services require shipping to Return Home's Washington facility and that you will guide them through the process

2. Provide Education About NOR

  • Feel free to reach out to Mandy Stafford at mstafford@returnhome.com, Minnesota licensed funeral director who is the Pre-Planning & Partnerships Manager for Return Home - she will provide you with guidance about the process, costs, and logistics

3. Coordinate Services

  • If the family wishes to proceed with NOR through Return Home's Washington facility: 

  • Contact Return Home directly to discuss arrangements

  • Coordinate transportation logistics

  • Handle necessary documentation and permits for out-of-state disposition

  • Provide support services your funeral home offers (memorial services, grief support, etc.)

4. Document and Follow Up

  • Document the family's wishes and any arrangements made

  • Maintain communication throughout the process

  • Follow up to ensure their needs are being met

Important Considerations Until Minnesota Return Home Location is Open

  • Current services require out-of-state transportation

  • Costs will include both the NOR service and transportation fees

  • The timeline will be extended due to shipping requirements

Resources

Moving Forward

This new option provides families with an additional choice for final disposition that aligns with their values and preferences. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the NOR process and consider how your funeral home can best serve families interested in this option. We'll continue to monitor the development of local facilities and provide updates as they become available.

If you have any questions about implementing NOR services or need assistance with specific cases, please don't hesitate to reach out to your fellow funeral director colleagues or MFDA.
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