SPRINGFIELD – Illinois families deserve the ability to scatter their loved ones' cremated remains according to their traditions and religious beliefs. Thanks to State Senator Laura Ellman’s new law, people will soon be able to scatter cremated ashes in Illinois waterways.

“Families undergoing significant life transitions following the death of a loved one deserve assistance as they face serious emotional and financial obstacles,” said Ellman (D-Naperville).“Families in my district who practice scattering ashes in flowing water have expressed their concerns to me – particularly about the absence of clear regulations regarding scattering rights.”

Ellman’s law allows families to scatter an individual’s cremated remains in a river, when a tenet of their faith includes the practice of disposition in a waterway.

The law carefully lays out requirements for how remains are handled to ensure proper care of the cremated remains, rivers, and public spaces. The cremated remains must come from only one person, be spread over a large enough area to avoid the ashes accumulating, be scattered away from public areas, and have only the cremated ashes scattered in the river. 

“Cremated remains should be afforded the same opportunity for secure scattering in water as they are over land,” said Ellman. “This law eases the burden on families while encouraging environmental safety by establishing clear and ethical permissions for residents who must scatter the remains of their loved ones in water.”

Senate Bill 1793 was signed into law on Friday.  It goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026.