HB 2905 Summary

• Creates a new mortuary assistant position and certification program for individuals aged 17+ with a high school diploma/GED who complete approved coursework, 12 months of apprenticeship, and pass an examination with at least 75% score.

• Establishes alternative qualification pathway for funeral directors who cannot meet standard requirements, including completion of a Board-approved funeral director course with 30+ semester hours and 12-month apprenticeship with 25 supervised funeral services.

• Adds new duties to the Oklahoma Funeral Board including approval of course providers and curriculum for mortuary assistant certification and regulation of crematories that must be licensed as part of funeral or commercial embalming establishments.

• Modifies fee structure to include a $150 mortuary assistant certification fee and changes the deadline for double renewal fees from April 30 to January 30 for non-payment after December 31.

• Authorizes mortuary assistants to pick up and transfer human remains without direct funeral director supervision under specified conditions, and authorizes certified mortuary assistants to conduct interment services under funeral director direction.