WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1306

Preneed establishments; reduce amount of fine that Secretary of State may impose upon for late filing of their reports.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shane Aguirre

HB 1306 reduces maximum fines Mississippi's Secretary of State can impose on preneed establishments for late regulatory report filing, weakening enforcement mechanisms for funeral industry oversight.

Died In Conference
#businessandfinancialinstitutions #insurance
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1306

Legislative bill overview

HB 1306 reduces the financial penalties that Mississippi's Secretary of State can impose on preneed establishments (funeral homes and similar businesses that sell advance burial/funeral services) for submitting required reports late. The bill modifies enforcement authority by lowering the maximum fine amount applicable to these violations.

Why is this important

Preneed establishments handle significant consumer funds collected years in advance of services. Regulatory compliance and timely reporting are critical consumer protections that ensure these businesses maintain proper financial records and customer protections. Reducing penalties may affect the Secretary of State's ability to enforce compliance with reporting deadlines.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection vs. regulatory burden: Smaller funeral homes may welcome reduced penalties, but weaker enforcement could compromise oversight of how customer prepayments are managed
  • Incentive structure: Lower fines may reduce motivation for timely compliance if businesses view penalties as a minor cost of doing business
  • Secretary of State enforcement authority: The reduction limits discretionary enforcement tools available to regulators monitoring this industry

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

Sign in to ask a question.