Why can't a man living in California be legally buried in New York (even if it's left as an instruction in his will)?

“Because he hasn't paid his taxes”

Tax status does not determine burial legality; the reason is that the man is alive, not financial obligations.

“Because it's too far away”

Distance does not affect the legality of burial; the key point is that the man cannot be buried if he is still alive.

“Because of state laws”

While state laws govern burial practices, the fundamental issue here is the man's living status, not specific legal restrictions.