AR HB1485

Changes language throughout Arkansas Code § 17-29-207 from "is empowered to" to "may" regarding the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors' authority to promulgate rules and regulations for embalming and funeral directing practices.

Amends § 17-29-306 to change renewal fee payment deadlines from January 31 to December 31 for both individual license holders and funeral establishment licenses.

Modifies § 17-29-304(c) to remove the specific deadline of "on or before January 1 of each year" for funeral establishment license applications, allowing flexibility in application timing.

Upgrades the criminal penalty in § 17-29-401 from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony for practicing embalming, funeral directing, or operating a funeral establishment without proper licensing.

Clarifies in § 17-29-311(d) that public officers, physicians, surgeons, or other professionals shall not send deceased remains to funeral establishments without first inquiring about the next of kin's wishes and the "authorizing agent or agents."