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Bill

HB 1856

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE STATE BOARD OF EMBALMERS, FUNERAL DIRECTORS, CEMETERIES, AND BURIAL SERVICES; AND TO INCREASE THE CIVIL PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS BY A LICENSEE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Denise Ennett and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1856 aimed to boost compliance in funeral services by raising civil penalties for violations from $500 to $1,000, impacting licensed providers in Arkansas.

WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
0
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Bill Summary · HB 1856

Summary of House Bill 1856

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 1856
  • Title: To Amend the Law Concerning the State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services; and to Increase the Civil Penalty for Violations by a Licensee
  • Status: Withdrawn by Author
  • Introduced: March 19, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1856 aimed to amend existing laws governing the State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill was to enhance regulatory oversight by increasing the civil penalties imposed on licensees for violations of the law or board rules.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Civil Penalties:
    • The bill proposed to amend Arkansas Code § 23-61-1103(a)(6) to increase the maximum civil penalty for violations by a licensee from $500 to $1,000 per violation. This change was intended to strengthen compliance among licensees and deter future violations.

Affected Parties

  • Licensees: The bill would have directly impacted individuals and entities licensed under the State Board of Embalmers, Funeral Directors, Cemeteries, and Burial Services. This includes funeral homes, cemeteries, and related service providers.
  • State Board: The State Board itself would have gained enhanced authority to enforce compliance through increased penalties.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 19, 2025: HB 1856 was filed and read for the first time. The rules were suspended, and it was read a second time before being referred to the Committee on Public Health, Welfare, and Labor.
  • April 1, 2025: The bill was returned by the committee with a recommendation to pass.
  • April 3, 2025: The bill was withdrawn by the author, halting its progress in the legislative process.

Conclusion

While HB 1856 sought to amend existing regulations and increase penalties for non-compliance within the funeral and burial services sector, it was ultimately withdrawn before further consideration. The proposed changes reflected an effort to enhance regulatory compliance and accountability among licensed professionals in this field.

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

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