This repeal seeks to revert back to prior legislative conditions, where the director of commerce and consumer affairs may grant exemptions based on proof that the cemetery authority does not operate for profit. This change could substantially shift management strategies among church-operated cemeteries and how they serve their communities by reinstating regulatory oversight that was intended to promote affordable funeral services.
Summary
SB157 aims to repeal Act 22 from the Session Laws of Hawaii 2020 due to its failure to lower funeral costs for parishioners associated with churches and nonprofit cemeteries. The act initially aimed to ease the financial burden on these entities by providing exemptions from certain bonding and licensing requirements if they did not engage in profit-generating activities. The Act intended to promote affordable burial options but has instead resulted in increased costs tied to third-party contractors, thus defeating its purpose.
Contention
There is significant contention surrounding SB157, as supporters advocate for returning to regulations that ensure churches can provide affordable funeral arrangements. However, some entities may argue that such restrictions on exemptions could impose additional regulatory burdens that might hinder their ability to serve members effectively. The debate centers around the balance between maintaining affordable funeral services and the operational autonomy of religious institutions within the state.