House passes legislation to streamline licensing process for funeral service professionals

By Maryville Forum via TN Content Exchange

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri House of Representatives has given approval to HBs 2322 and 1774, aimed at reforming the licensing process for individuals pursuing careers in funeral-related services.

According to a news release, the legislation — sponsored by state Rep. Jeff Farnan, R-Stanberry — is positioned as a vital step toward enhancing workforce development in the funeral service industry.

With the theme “it’s a workforce development bill,” these legislative measures are designed to facilitate and expedite the licensing process for aspiring funeral directors and embalmers. By enabling apprenticeships for funeral home directors and embalmers, the bills aim to provide students with a more efficient pathway to obtaining their licenses, thereby fostering professional growth and advancement within the field.

“Our goal with this legislation is to support aspiring funeral service professionals in their journey towards licensure,” said Farnan in a statement. “By offering apprenticeship opportunities and streamlining the licensing process, we hope to empower individuals to pursue their passion for serving others during their time of need.”

Key highlights of the bills include:

• Requirements for embalming student license applicants to be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and be enrolled in or have completed a funeral service education program.
• Provision for student licensees to assist in embalming under supervision, with a mandate to complete an apprenticeship, embalm 25 bodies, and pass exams within a five-year period.
• Stipulation for funeral director license applicants to be 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and work as an apprentice under a licensed director. They must obtain a provisional license and fulfill requirements within 36 months, or obtain a full license through accredited programs or apprenticeships.
• Introduction of limited licensure for funeral directors, allowing them to work in cremation-only establishments.

These legislative provisions are scheduled to take effect on Aug. 28, 2025.

“This legislation underscores our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering excellence within the funeral service industry,” House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, said. “We believe that by creating more accessible pathways to licensure, we can ensure that funeral professionals are equipped to provide compassionate and dignified care to those in their time of need.”