Gov. Stitt vetoes bill to extend Oklahoma Funeral Board

Governor Stitt vetoed a bill that would have extended the life of the Oklahoma Funeral Board. This board oversees the licensing of funeral homes, crematories, funeral directors, and embalmers. One funeral director says that without the funeral board, families could encounter issues like mishandling of paperwork or some places not acting ethically.

Q: What impact does the lack of regulation have on the funeral industry?

Keith Biglow, who has over 30 years of experience and owns four funeral homes in Oklahoma, emphasizes that the industry needs regulation.

“We go to school, we go to continuing education, we get licensed properly, and follow rules and regulations with our establishment. People need us at the worst time of their lives. If there are no rules or regulations, or no police to govern the funeral industry, what's going to happen to the industry,” Biglow said.

Q: What role does the Funeral Board play?

The Funeral Board ensures that everyone has licenses, checks the cleanliness of facilities, and can assist families who have been mistreated.

“Anybody off the street can say they know how to run a funeral home without a license. Nobody will hold them accountable, and they could take advantage of families. The potential problems are endless,” Biglow said.

Q: What is Governor Stitt's stance on the Funeral Board?

Governor Stitt argues that the Funeral Board has shielded the industry from meaningful competition and has preserved outdated regulations. His statement reads: "Before granting another sunset extension, the Legislature should seriously evaluate where this Board belongs and what its core duties should be. Until the Funeral Board becomes more accountable and responsive to legislative oversight, its continuation should not be rubber-stamped."

Q: How does Biglow feel about the regulation of the funeral industry?

Biglow believes that there has always been some form of regulation in the business.

“I've always felt that people need to pay attention to which funeral homes they want to use, but now they'll have to be especially careful,” Biglow said.

Q: How can people ensure credibility?

Biglow mentions that the only way to verify credentials right now is through the Oklahoma Funeral Board website. People can also look up the funeral home’s license and read reviews.