SB1853 Summary: Cemetery Consumer Bill of Rights Act

• Establishes consumer rights for cemetery goods and services, including the right to access grave location records, purchase merchandise from third-party vendors without penalty, and file complaints with cemetery authorities.

• Requires cemetery authorities to provide written price lists for all merchandise and services, disclose all costs in contracts prior to rendering services, and maintain adequate cemetery maintenance standards (grass levels not exceeding 8 inches).

• Prohibits cemetery authorities from deceptive or unfair practices, including misrepresenting legal requirements, making false claims about grave liners or burial containers preventing decomposition, and disclosing confidential consumer information.

• Creates whistleblower protections for cemetery employees who report violations to supervisors or public bodies, with remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, and attorney's fees.

• Establishes the Cemetery Oversight Board with 7 members to provide recommendations on licensing, discipline, and rulemaking; enables State's Attorneys to enforce violations with civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation and criminal penalties for unlicensed practice (Class A misdemeanor for first offense, Class 4 felony for subsequent offenses).