Politics & Government

New York OKs Human Composting Law, Becoming 6th State In U.S. To Do So

"I am committed to having my body composted and my family knows that," he added.

(Jenna Fisher/Patch)

January 1, 2023

Howard Fischer, a 63-year-old investor living north of New York City, has a wish for when he dies. He wants his remains to be placed in a vessel, broken down by tiny microbes and composted into rich, fertile soil.

Find out what's happening in New York Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Maybe his composted remains could be planted outside the family home in Vermont, or maybe they could be returned to the earth elsewhere. "Whatever my family chooses to do with the compost after it's done is up to them," Fischer said.

"I am committed to having my body composted and my family knows that," he added. "But I would love for it to happen in New York where I live rather than shipping myself across the country."

Find out what's happening in New York Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.


CBS Local Digital Media personalizes the global reach of CBS-owned and operated television and radio stations with a local perspective.