MS HB493

Authorizes licensed funeral directors and funeral home employees to request life insurance information from insurers for deceased persons by providing a death notification, written authorization from those with legal authority to direct disposition, and group affiliation details if applicable.

Requires insurers to promptly inform authorized funeral service providers of policy existence, named beneficiaries, outstanding liens or loans, benefit amounts payable, and whether the policy was reinstated within the past 24 months.

Permits funeral service providers to refer requests to the Mississippi Attorney General's Office of Consumer Protection if insurers fail to provide timely responses.

Requires funeral service providers to locate beneficiaries within 100 hours of receiving insurance information and provide them with all documents obtained, along with written notice that beneficiaries have no legal obligation to use policy proceeds for funeral expenses or debts.

Classifies false requests for information or failure to comply with notification requirements as unprofessional conduct subject to disciplinary action against funeral directors and establishments.