AR SB527

Changes embalmer qualification requirement from "embalming" to "mortuary science" school graduation and clarifies that accreditation by either American Board of Funeral Service Education or State Board is acceptable.

Reduces funeral director apprenticeship requirement from 24 months to 18 months, with mortuary science graduation substituting for 6 months instead of 12 months of the apprenticeship.

Adds specific facility requirements for funeral establishments including permanent business location, working telephone, public utilities, sanitary preparation rooms with exhaust systems, refrigeration units, separate conference rooms, and prohibition on multiple establishments sharing same physical location without board approval.

Requires crematories to provide proof of general liability insurance and authorizes the State Board to develop rules establishing minimum insurance coverage levels.

Clarifies that out-of-state licensees receive temporary working numbers valid for one year and changes title of board official from "executive director" to "executive secretary."