Funeral establishments: apprenticeship training.
The changes introduced by AB 1381 are significant in modernizing the existing regulations, which mandated that funeral establishments must have a full-time licensed embalmer with a minimum of two years of experience for apprenticeship approval. This amendment is intended to alleviate some operational difficulties faced by establishments, especially those in regions with limited access to qualified embalmers. Consequently, this law could encourage more individuals to pursue embalming as a career, thereby addressing potential workforce shortages within the sector.
Assembly Bill No. 1381, introduced by Obernolte, amends Section 7670 of the Business and Professions Code, specifically focusing on regulations surrounding apprenticeship training in funeral establishments. The bill aims to facilitate the hiring of trade embalmers on a contractual basis, allowing funeral establishments to meet apprenticeship training requirements more flexibly. By permitting trade embalmers—independent licensed embalmers with requisite experience—to be utilized by establishments without the constraint of maintaining a full-time embalmer at all times, the bill seeks to enhance the apprenticeship framework within California's funeral industry.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1381 was largely supportive, particularly from representatives of the funeral industry who recognized the necessity of adapting to contemporary workforce needs. The bill was passed unanimously in the Assembly, reflecting broad bipartisan agreement on the importance of flexibility in apprenticeship training. By reducing regulatory burdens, stakeholders perceive this bill as a step towards ensuring that funeral establishments can continue to operate effectively and train new professionals without excessive constraint.
While there was general support for the bill, some concerns were raised regarding the standards of training and the qualifications of trade embalmers. Critics worried that allowing these embalmers to supervise apprentices could lead to disparities in training quality, potentially undermining public confidence in funeral services. However, proponents of the bill emphasized that trade embalmers possess the necessary qualifications and experience to fulfill supervisory roles effectively, thereby ensuring that apprenticeship programs maintain high standards.