Texas House Bill HB456

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the enforcement of regulations governing cemetery organizations, cemetery corporations, cemeteries, and crematories; imposing penalties.

Impact

The enactment of HB 456 will create a framework that allows the Attorney General to pursue civil penalties against cemetery organizations that violate the provisions outlined in the bill. The proposed penalty structure provides for fines ranging from $50 to $25,000 for each violation, which can accumulate daily if the violations are ongoing. This measure is expected to increase accountability among funeral service providers and ensure compliance with established regulations, promoting fairness in the treatment of all individuals accessing these services.

Summary

House Bill 456 aims to strengthen the enforcement of regulations governing cemetery organizations and funeral services in Texas. It focuses on addressing potential violations related to discrimination based on race, color, or national origin within these organizations. The bill mandates the Texas Funeral Service Commission to notify the Attorney General if there is reason to believe that a cemetery organization has violated such regulations, facilitating a mechanism for legal action against non-compliant entities.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 456 is the balance between regulatory enforcement and the potential burden placed on cemetery organizations. Advocates for the bill argue that it is essential to protect the rights of individuals against discrimination, while opponents may express concern that the penalties could disproportionately affect smaller, family-run cemeteries. The discussions thus highlight a need to ensure that the enforcement mechanisms do not hinder the provision of essential services within the community.