Living With the FTC's Funeral Rule

Course overview

In the1970s the Federal Trade Commission proposed and enacted a number of trade regulations including The Funeral Rule which went into effect in 1984 although enforcement efforts did not occur until about 1987. FTC reports indicated that funeral homes were the focus of the rule although well aware that other entities, including cemeteries, and casket stores competed with funeral homes in the sale of caskets and outer burial containers. However, because the FTC determined the most serious consumer abuses involved funeral homes, the first version of The Funeral Rule only focused on this segment of the death care industry. To the keen observer, the requirements of the Funeral Rule would appear to be common sense ethical practices any business would want follow. So, what's so bad about that? Nothing is wrong with it. The problem is The Funeral Rule is not merely a recommended business practice. Violations, not just a refusal to comply are punishable with fines beginning $12,000 per violation. As you can see, knowing and understanding The FTCs Funeral Rule is of critical importance. To help you understand these important laws, this continuing education course has been written to help you remain in compliance with the Federal Trade Commissions Funeral Rule.