Texas House Bill HB1349

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/14/11
• Refer: 3/1/11

Caption

Relating to the services included in a retail price list provided by a funeral establishment.

Impact

The impact of HB 1349 on state laws is significant, as it requires funeral establishments to be more transparent in their pricing. This change will likely affect the way consumers interact with funeral service providers, as families can now expect a more detailed understanding of the pricing involved and the services offered. The bill sets out specific requirements, ensuring that consumers have access to comprehensive pricing information, which is essential for budgeting funeral expenses appropriately.

Summary

House Bill 1349 aims to enhance the transparency and comprehensiveness of the retail price lists that funeral establishments must provide. Specifically, the bill amends the Occupations Code to mandate that these price lists now include the costs of additional services provided by funeral establishments alongside traditional items like caskets and hearse services. The inclusion of itemized services in the retail price list is intended to give consumers a clearer understanding of the costs associated with funeral services, thereby empowering them to make more informed decisions during a difficult time.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 1349 appears to be positive, particularly from consumer advocacy groups that support increased transparency in the funeral industry. By providing clearer pricing information, the bill is seen as a protective measure for consumers who are often vulnerable and may be pressured into making hasty decisions during emotionally charged situations. Nevertheless, there may be some contention from funeral service providers who might feel that the additional requirements could complicate their operations or impose financial burdens.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential challenges that funeral establishments might face in adapting to the new requirements. Some stakeholders may argue that the added itemization could lead to misunderstandings about the pricing of services, while others may point out that it could escalate costs for consumers if providers increase their prices to cover compliance costs. The discussion surrounding HB 1349 highlights the ongoing debate between ensuring consumer protection and maintaining operational feasibility for service providers.