Colorado Legislators Applaud New Laws Enhancing Oversight in Funeral and Tissue Banking Sectors
(Denver, CO - May 28, 2024) -- Representatives Soper and Bradley celebrate the enactment of pivotal legislation enhancing regulatory oversight and upholding standards in the mortuary science and tissue banking sectors. These new laws ensure public trust, professional accountability, and rigorous standards for critical services across Colorado.
Strengthening Mortuary Science Regulations
The recently signed HB24-1335 and SB24-173 mark significant advancements in the regulation of the funeral services industry. HB24-1335, also known as the "Sunset Continue Mortuary Science Code Regulation," extends the registration of funeral establishments and crematories until 2031. This legislation reinforces the commitment to transparency and protection within the mortuary science field.
"This legislation ensures continued protection and transparency in the mortuary science field," said Representative Soper. "Maintaining these regulations is crucial for safeguarding public trust during vulnerable times."
Complementing this, SB24-173 establishes stricter licensing requirements for funeral directors, embalmers, cremationists, and other mortuary science professionals. By setting clear education, examination, and certification criteria, the bill aims to ensure competence and accountability within the industry.
"This bill sets essential standards for the funeral services industry, enhancing consumer protections and professionalism," said Representative Soper. "Implementing licensing aligns with best practices and ensures dignity and respect for the deceased and their families."
Both bills collectively uphold the standards and protections that families rely on, ensuring public access to information about practitioners' qualifications and promoting the highest standards of care in funeral services.
Continuing Oversight of Nontransplant Tissue Banks
In addition to the strides made in the funeral services sector, Representative Brandi Bradley announced the signing of HB24-1254, which extends the regulation of nontransplant tissue banks for an additional nine years, until 2033. This legislation upholds critical standards in the handling of nontransplant tissue, ensuring both safety and ethical practices.
"No one should ever have to question if they are receiving their loved ones' remains. Regulating nontransplant tissue banks is a step to ensure that this never happens again," said Representative Bradley. "I would like to thank Danielle, Sheila, and the others for sharing their stories and being a voice for victims everywhere, advocating that these atrocities never happen again in Colorado."
HB24-1254 adopts recommendations from the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) sunset review, granting the Director of the Division of Professions and Occupations the authority to create necessary rules for the regulation of nontransplant tissue banks. This measure aligns with DORA's findings and supports ongoing regulatory efforts.
"As a mom who made the difficult decision to cremate her daughter Emerson, I cannot imagine the pain of not knowing if you are receiving your loved one's remains," added Bradley. "I hear you, I see you, and I will continue to work with you to make these bills even stronger. Thank you to the governor for signing these three very important bills to help."
A Unified Commitment to Public Safety and Professionalism
The enactment of HB24-1335, SB24-173, and HB24-1254 highlights Colorado's dedication to maintaining rigorous oversight and high standards in both the funeral services and tissue banking sectors. These legislative measures collectively ensure continued protection, transparency, and professional accountability, reinforcing the trust and dignity that Coloradans expect and deserve.
"This unified legislative effort marks a significant step towards safeguarding public trust and ensuring the highest standards of care and professionalism," emphasized Representatives Soper and Bradley. "Together, we are committed to upholding the integrity of these critical services for all citizens of Colorado."
With these new laws, Colorado reaffirms its commitment to public safety, ethical practices, and rigorous standards across vital service sectors, ensuring dignity and respect for all individuals and their families.
