Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB3401

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to regulation by the Texas Funeral Service Commission of the disposition of a deceased human body.

Impact

The legislative intention behind HB3401 is to streamline the operational procedures of funeral service providers and enhance consumer protections. By clearly delineating roles and responsibilities, particularly concerning complaint management and practitioner licensure, the bill aims to foster accountability within the funeral service industry. The need for rigorous standards is highlighted by stipulations for maximum periods for body disposition and the prohibition of internet-based funeral or cremation arrangements without appropriate oversight.

Summary

House Bill 3401 focuses on the regulation of funeral services in Texas, specifically addressing the responsibilities of the Texas Funeral Service Commission regarding the disposition of deceased human bodies. The bill seeks to amend certain sections of the Occupations Code to enhance the regulatory framework that governs funeral practices, including the requirement for a crematory operator’s license and the handling of complaints against licensed funeral directors. These changes are aimed at ensuring a higher standard of service while maintaining public health and safety standards.

Contention

Some aspects of the bill may raise concerns among funeral service providers regarding the increased regulatory burden, including the new licensing requirements for crematory operators. The requirement for funeral arrangements to be conducted under strict supervision may be contested by those advocating for more flexible handling of funeral services. Additionally, the provisions surrounding consumer complaints and investigation procedures could lead to resistance from operators unfamiliar with expanding regulatory frameworks.

Notable_points

The bill also emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness by mandating that funeral service providers display their contact information prominently and inform clients about their rights regarding complaints. This responsiveness to consumer needs signals a proactive approach to regulation, intending to build trust in funeral services while simultaneously ensuring compliance with established protocols. Moreover, detailed rules regarding the disposal of metal objects and implants from deceased bodies are intended to address environmental and safety concerns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2517

Relating to the regulation of human body acquisition services and authorized recipients.

TX SB2040

Relating to the continuation and transfer of the regulation of willed body programs to the Texas Funeral Service Commission, the regulation of willed body programs, non-transplant anatomical donation organizations, and anatomical facilities, and the creation of the State Anatomical Advisory Committee; requiring registration; authorizing fees; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB1510

Relating to the continuation and transfer of the regulation of willed body programs to the Texas Funeral Service Commission, the regulation of willed body programs, non-transplant anatomical donation organizations, and anatomical facilities, and the creation of the State Anatomical Advisory Committee; requiring registration; authorizing fees; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX HB3161

Relating to the duties of a justice of the peace, medical examiner, or other investigator regarding the bodies of unidentified deceased persons and to the control by certain persons of the disposition of a deceased person's remains.

TX SB1698

Relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general.

TX HB3888

Relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general.

TX HB3275

Relating to the regulation of consumer credit transactions and the regulatory authority of the consumer credit commissioner; changing a fee.

TX SB1371

Relating to the regulation of consumer credit transactions and the regulatory authority of the consumer credit commissioner; changing a fee.

TX HB3462

Relating to the consolidation of ombudsman programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

Similar Bills

MS SB2090

Board of Funeral Services; revise provisions related to.

MS SB2822

Board of Funeral Services; revise certain duties, powers and licensing requirements.

CO HB1335

Sunset Continue Mortuary Science Code Regulation

MS SB2078

State Board of Funeral Service; extend the repealer of.

MS HB1316

State Board of Funeral Services; extend repealer on.

MD HB1060

Cremations - Natural Organic Reduction - Regulation

TX HB1292

Relating to the Texas Funeral Service Commission; authorizing fees.

TX SB983

Relating to the Texas Funeral Service Commission; authorizing fees.