Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB3359

Introduced
2/7/22  
Refer
2/8/22  
Report Pass
3/3/22  
Engrossed
3/23/22  
Refer
3/29/22  
Report Pass
4/7/22  
Enrolled
5/2/22  

Caption

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; modifying qualifications and examination requirements; emergency.

Impact

This legislation notably impacts state laws regarding the qualifications of funeral service professionals. By adjusting the licensing criteria, it seeks to ensure a higher standard of service and accountability within the industry. Additionally, the ability for the Oklahoma Funeral Board to issue reciprocal licenses for qualified out-of-state applicants is emphasized, potentially increasing the workforce in the funeral service sector and addressing shortages in certain regions. This could also enhance competition and potentially improve services available to residents.

Summary

House Bill 3359 amends the Funeral Services Licensing Act in Oklahoma, introducing modifications to the qualifications required to become a licensed funeral director or embalmer. The bill sets forth new educational and experiential requirements, ensuring that candidates for licensure have completed specific programs accredited by the American Board of Funeral Service Education. It aims to enhance the competence of professionals in this sensitive field and streamline the licensing process for those relocating from other states.

Sentiment

Throughout discussions surrounding HB3359, the sentiment has largely been positive, with support stemming from professional organizations within the funeral services field that advocate for higher education and standards. However, there are indications of concern regarding the rigorous nature of the new requirements, particularly from smaller funeral service providers who may feel pressure to adapt quickly without sufficient time for compliance.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between maintaining quality standards and ensuring that the licensing process does not become overly burdensome for aspiring funeral service professionals. Some stakeholders argue that the changes could impede access to the profession, thereby exacerbating existing workforce challenges. Additionally, the emergency provisions allowing for temporary licenses during a declared state of emergency aim to ensure continuity of services, but there has been debate about the implications for oversight and public safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB2240

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; lowering age qualification for licensure; emergency.

OK HB2240

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; lowering age qualification for licensure; emergency.

OK HB1365

Professions and occupations; Oklahoma Funeral Directors and Embalmers Examination; effective date.

OK HB2072

Professions and occupations; licenses for funeral directors and embalmers; authorizing issuance of temporary licenses during state of emergency; emergency.

OK HB1742

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; modifying and adding definitions; modifying fee; making certain information confidential; effective date.

OK HB2286

Professions and occupations; Oklahoma Funeral Board appointment; creating assistant funeral director license; establishing requirements; creating procedures; establishing certain fees; effective date; emergency.

OK SB957

Funeral Services Licensing Act; removing required accreditation for education of certain licensure. Effective date.

OK SB957

Funeral Services Licensing Act; removing required accreditation for education of certain licensure. Effective date.

OK HB3015

Professions and occupations; social worker licensing requirements; schooling qualifications; effective date.

OK HB1229

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; definition; exception; effective date.

Similar Bills

OK HB1365

Professions and occupations; Oklahoma Funeral Directors and Embalmers Examination; effective date.

OK HB2240

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; lowering age qualification for licensure; emergency.

OK HB2240

Professions and occupations; Funeral Services Licensing Act; lowering age qualification for licensure; emergency.

OK HB2072

Professions and occupations; licenses for funeral directors and embalmers; authorizing issuance of temporary licenses during state of emergency; emergency.

OK SB957

Funeral Services Licensing Act; removing required accreditation for education of certain licensure. Effective date.

OK SB957

Funeral Services Licensing Act; removing required accreditation for education of certain licensure. Effective date.