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SB 1061

Occupations: mortuary science; crematory facility and operator licenses; provide for. Amends sec. 1851 of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.1851) & adds art. 18B. TIE BAR WITH: SB 1063'26

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Hertel and 2 co-sponsors

Creates a licensure-based regime for crematories and operators, with bonds, inspections, ownership disclosures, and ongoing education to strengthen consumer protection and oversigh

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Bill Summary · SB 1061

Summary of SB 1061 (2025-2026) – Michigan

SB 1061 is a comprehensive reform package governing mortuary science, crematory facilities, and related licensed professionals. It amends the Occupational Code (section 1851) and adds new Article 18B, creating a structured licensing framework for crematories and crematory facility operators, alongside clarified definitions for mortuary service activities and removal services. The bill ties its effective date to SB 1063, meaning it will take effect only if SB 1063 is enacted.

Main purpose and intent

  • Establish a regulated, licensure-based system for crematory facilities and crematory facility operators.
  • Clarify definitions and regulatory scopes for mortuary science, cremation, removal services, and related facilities.
  • Enhance consumer protection and public health oversight through licensing, bonding, inspections, and ongoing education.

Key provisions and changes

  • Definitions (Section 1851 and Article 18B):

    • Precisely defines roles and terms: applicant, authorized person, authorized vehicle, crematory owner facility, funeral establishment, refrigeration facility, removal service, hoslding room, and other related terms to standardize regulatory oversight.
    • Introduces new terms specific to cremation (crematory facility, practice of cremation, retort).

  • Crematory facility licensing (Sec. 1882–1884):

    • A crematory facility license is required to engage in cremation and is valid for 2 years and location-specific.
    • Licensure requires:
    • Disclosure of ownership interests (detailed ownership information for trusts, corporations, partnerships, LLCs, etc.).
    • Pass a department initial inspection.
    • A surety bond of at least $100,000 for the benefit of Michigan residents.
    • Proof of a retort permit from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
    • Proof of a local fire inspection approval.
    • Licenses become void upon a change in ownership or ownership structure, with a requirement for a new license if ownership changes.

  • Crematory facility inspection and standards (Sec. 1884):

    • The department may inspect facilities and revoke licenses for non-compliance with standards and requirements.

  • Crematory facility operator licensing (Sec. 1885–1886):

    • Operators must hold a crematory facility operator license (valid for 2 years).
    • Eligibility requires completion of a department-approved crematory operation certification/training and good moral character.
    • Prior license suspensions/revocations in other states can bar issuance.

  • Management requirements (Sec. 1886):

    • Managers must ensure compliance, oversee daily operations, reside within 75 miles of the facility, and be named to the department.
    • Manager information must be displayed at the facility entrance; changes must be reported within 30 days.
    • Individuals with revoked licenses may not own or manage a crematory facility (with limited leasing exceptions).

  • Continuing education (Sec. 1888):

    • Beginning January 1, 2027, crematory facility operators must complete at least 4 hours of eligible continuing education per year of the license cycle.

  • Facilities and holding requirements (Sec. 1889):

    • Crematories must comply with refrigeration requirements and maintain a holding area for remains awaiting cremation, with specified handling, storage, and security standards.

  • Penalties (Sec. 1890):

    • Establishes penalties for kickbacks, assisting nonlicensees, profanity around remains, improper handling, and failure to secure cremation permits, among other offenses.

Who is affected

  • Crematory facility owners and operators will undergo licensing, bonding, ownership disclosure, inspections, and ongoing education.
  • Funeral establishments and removal services may interact with the new licensure regime and the holding/refrigeration requirements.
  • Individuals seeking crematory operation roles must obtain and maintain operator licenses and meet training standards.
  • Departments (Regulatory Affairs, Environment, Fire, Health) will administer inspections, bonds, permits, and disciplinary actions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Licenses are valid for 2 years and require ongoing compliance.
  • Ownership changes void existing licenses, necessitating reapplication.
  • Effective date is contingent on SB 1063’s enactment.
  • Beginning 2027, operator licensees must complete 4 hours of continuing education per year.

This bill constitutes a significant regulatory expansion aimed at strengthening oversight, transparency of ownership, and professional standards in Michigan’s crematory and mortuary sectors.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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