Tennessee House Bill HB2026

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24
• Refer: 1/25/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 46 and Title 47, relative to cemeteries.

Impact

The bill mandates that cemetery companies disclose crucial information when making offers for pre-payment. Specifically, companies must inform prospective purchasers about which days interment services will be available at no additional cost beyond what is paid initially. Furthermore, it must be clearly stated that the decision to defer the purchase may result in future cost increases. This requirement aims to protect consumers by ensuring that they are fully informed of their options and the associated costs, potentially preventing unexpected financial burdens later on.

Summary

House Bill 2026 is an act aimed at amending Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically regarding cemeteries. The bill introduces requirements for cemetery companies that offer pre-need contracts for selling grave spaces. Under the new provisions, these companies must also present potential buyers with an option to pre-pay for both the interment rights and the services related to the grave space. This not only encourages financial planning for individuals wishing to secure burial arrangements, but also ensures that they are made aware of the conditions associated with such pre-payments.

Contention

While the bill enhances consumer protections related to cemetery services, there may be discussions regarding the implications for cemetery operators. The requirement for detailed disclosures regarding costs and service availability could necessitate changes in how these businesses operate. Some cemetery companies may express concerns about the administrative burden this bill introduces, while others may view it as a positive move towards transparency and ethical practices. The balance between consumer rights and business operations will be a notable topic of contention in discussions surrounding this bill.