Colorado Proposes Overhaul Of Funeral Home Regulations

From left, Sheila Canfield-Jones of Bailey, Colo., speaks as Colorado State Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta, and State Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Eagle, listen during a news conference to unveil bipartisan legisl

Lawmakers in Colorado have introduced bills aimed at revamping the state's funeral home regulations following a series of disturbing cases that have shocked the community. These cases, ranging from mishandling of remains to selling body parts and fake ashes, have left numerous families devastated.

The proposed bipartisan bill includes Colorado's first licensing requirements for funeral home directors, aligning the state with national standards. The legislation also mandates licensing criteria for other industry roles such as embalmers and cremationists.

If passed, the bill will necessitate background checks, a degree in mortuary science, national examination clearance, and an apprenticeship for obtaining a funeral home director's license. This marks a significant update in a state where funeral home directors are not currently required to have graduated high school.

Proposed legislation mandates licensing criteria for embalmers and cremationists.

Colorado introduces first licensing requirements for funeral home directors.

Bill requires background checks, mortuary science degree, national exam clearance, and apprenticeship.

Recent incidents prompt urgency for reform in funeral industry oversight.

Legislation includes provisions for existing operators to comply by 2026.

Bills aim to instill trust in the community and prevent future mishaps.

The urgency for reform was underscored by recent incidents, including the discovery of nearly 200 decaying bodies in a Colorado funeral home and the case of Christina Rosales, whose body was found in a hearse due to negligence.

Another bill in the pipeline will mandate regular inspections of funeral homes, addressing lapses in oversight that have plagued the industry. The proposed legislation aims to instill trust in the community and prevent future mishaps.

While the Colorado Funeral Directors Association supports the bills, they caution that licensing alone may not guarantee perfection. However, they view the proposed regulations as a crucial step towards enhancing industry standards and accountability.

The legislation also offers provisions for existing funeral home operators to comply with the new requirements by 2026. Renewal of licenses will entail refresher courses on relevant laws, ethics, and public health protocols.

Overall, the proposed bills signal a collective effort to improve oversight and restore public confidence in the funeral industry in Colorado. The state aims to set a new standard for professionalism and integrity in handling the deceased, ensuring that families can trust that their loved ones are treated with dignity and respect.