Colorado Senate Bill SB173

Colorado 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/24
• Report Pass: 3/26/24
• Refer: 3/4/24
• Report Pass: 4/2/24
• Refer: 3/26/24
• Report Pass: 4/12/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/12/24
• Engrossed: 4/15/24
• Refer: 4/15/24
• Report Pass: 4/17/24
• Report Pass: 4/25/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Report Pass: 4/30/24
• Refer: 4/25/24
• Refer: 4/30/24
• Enrolled: 5/2/24
• Engrossed: 5/16/24
• Passed: 5/24/24
• Enrolled: 5/16/24

Caption

Regulate Mortuary Science Occupations

Impact

The legislation significantly impacts the practice of mortuary science in Colorado by establishing a more regulated environment. It mandates licensure for various roles within the industry, which is expected to enhance consumer protection. By requiring background checks and establishing qualifications, the bill aims to ensure that only qualified individuals provide sensitive funeral and burial services, thus maintaining professional standards and protecting public health and safety. These changes are poised to modernize regulations that date back several decades, bringing them in line with contemporary standards.

Summary

Senate Bill 173, titled 'Regulate Mortuary Science Occupations', aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the licensing of mortuary science professionals in Colorado. This bill requires individuals who wish to practice as funeral directors, embalmers, cremationists, or natural reductionists to obtain the appropriate licenses by January 1, 2027. It introduces stringent requirements for licensure, including completion of an accredited mortuary science program, successful passing of national examinations, and fulfilling specified hours of practical experience. The introduction of provisional licenses allows current practitioners time to comply with the new regulations while still enabling them to operate legally.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 173 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers and industry stakeholders, who argue that regulation is essential for ensuring quality and safety in the profession. However, there are concerns about the potential burden placed on existing practitioners who may find the new requirements challenging, particularly those who may not be able to meet the educational and experience criteria by the deadline. Advocacy groups emphasize the need to ensure that changes do not inadvertently limit access to qualified professionals in underserved areas.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the debate over the necessity and impact of a licensing overhaul. Critics raise concerns that the costs associated with obtaining licenses—alongside compliance with new educational requirements—may disrupt established funeral practices, particularly for smaller, independent operators. Furthermore, the transitional process for current practitioners to adapt to the new law, such as the deadline for obtaining provisional licenses, has raised questions about its feasibility, with some fearing a shortage of licensed professionals during the adjustment period.