NC H628

Prohibits health care agents appointed under a healthcare power of attorney from changing funeral arrangements or the performing funeral establishment specified in a preneed funeral contract purchased by or on behalf of the principal.

Amends G.S. 32A-19 to explicitly state that healthcare power of attorney authority does not include the right to modify funeral arrangements in preneed contracts.

Amends G.S. 90-210.63A to prevent health care agents from changing preneed funeral contract arrangements, with an exception allowing a competent person in the statutory priority order to designate an alternate funeral establishment if the originally designated one is no longer in business.

Clarifies in G.S. 90-210.124 that authorization of body disposition does not grant rights to cancel preneed contracts, substitute licensees, modify contracts, or change funeral arrangements through healthcare power of attorney.

Becomes effective October 1, 2017.