Texas Senate Bill SB983

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the Texas Funeral Service Commission; authorizing fees.

Impact

The proposed changes are expected to standardize licensing fees, making them reasonable and necessary for the administration of the commission's responsibilities. It establishes specific fees for the application, renewal, and other licensing-related services, which will fund the commission's activities aimed at maintaining standards in funeral services. This aspect of the bill could significantly impact funeral establishments, as adherence to these regulations will affect their operational costs and compliance burden.

Summary

SB983 focuses on the regulations governing the Texas Funeral Service Commission, particularly emphasizing amendments to existing licensing procedures and fee structures. The bill outlines the composition of the commission, detailing the qualifications necessary for its members and establishing public representation mandates aimed at bolstering consumer protections within the funeral services sector. A key aspect of the bill is its intention to streamline licensing processes for funeral directors and embalmers while ensuring that the standards for the services provided are upheld.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between regulatory oversight and the operational flexibility of funeral service providers. While the bill aims to enhance consumer protection, some stakeholders may argue that the additional fees and strict regulatory measures might create financial burdens on smaller funeral establishments. There could be concerns about whether these regulations effectively address consumer needs or merely serve as bureaucratic hurdles. Furthermore, ongoing inspections and compliance checks could lead to debates surrounding the enforcement measures and the potential for disproportionate penalties.