Arkansas Senate Bill SB98

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/23
• Refer: 1/23/23
• Report Pass: 1/31/23
• Engrossed: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Report Pass: 2/8/23
• Enrolled: 2/14/23
• Chaptered: 2/23/23
• Passed: 2/23/23

Caption

To Amend The Certificate For Benefits For Burial Associations; And To Clarify The Percentage Payable To Substitute Service-providing Funeral Homes Based On Membership Data And Proximity To The Contract Funeral Home.

Impact

The proposed changes will impact state laws governing burial associations, particularly regarding how benefits are disbursed when services are rendered by funeral homes other than the contract funeral home. This modification is particularly relevant for memberships issued before specific cutoff dates, which are addressed in the bill by establishing clear percentages that must be paid under various circumstances. This is expected to ensure that families receive appropriate financial coverage for funeral services, reflecting a more equitable distribution of benefits based on the services provided.

Summary

Senate Bill 98 seeks to amend the existing regulations regarding burial associations in Arkansas. This bill is focused on clarifying the payment structures for funeral homes that provide services under such associations. By specifying the percentage of benefits payable to substitute servicing funeral homes based on membership data and their proximity to the contract funeral home, the bill aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in transactions related to funeral services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 98 appears to be positive, particularly among stakeholders in the funeral service industry and burial associations. Supporters of the bill argue that it will streamline the payment processes and reduce ambiguities related to benefit disbursements, thereby serving both families and service providers better. However, there may be concerns raised by some parties about the implications of these changes on how burial associations operate and the financial ramifications for members utilizing different funeral homes.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the specific percentages outlined in the bill for various types of memberships and how these changes will affect existing contracts with funeral homes. Any changes in the payment structure could lead to debates about fairness and adequacy of benefits based on members' choices of funeral services. Additionally, some representatives might express concerns about access to services in cases where the contract funeral home is not the nearest option for families, particularly in rural areas where choices are limited.