On May 6, 2025, the full Montana State Board of Funeral Service met in Helena. The key discussion revolved around HB 27. As you know, 2025 is a legislative year, and several developments are expected to impact funeral services in Montana. One such development is HB 27. This is a joint resolution calling for an interim study of Montana’s funeral service statutes.
With the passing of this bill, the Legislature of Montana will establish a working group of stakeholders, including legislators, morticians, crematory operators and cemetery professionals, to examine and improve the clarity and consistency of existing laws. The study would address licensing categories, fees, scope of practice and all forms of final disposition. Because the bill passed, the Board held a lengthy discussion about how to best proceed forward while making certain that the Board of Funeral Service will play a significant role in the study.
Toward this goal, the board chairperson, Jim Axelson, formed a committee of Board of Funeral Service members, Ralph Mihlfeld and Denis Pitman. This committee will play a vital role in starting a framework to present to the legislative group. This is an exciting time for funeral service. More to follow!
Board Progress
Over the past year, the Board of Funeral Service has made meaningful progress on several important fronts. While the Board faced some challenges in its relationship with the Department of Labor, including a period when meetings were actively discouraged and a high turnover in the executive officer role — positive change has taken root.
With the appointment of Susie Osborne as executive officer, the Board has found renewed stability. Susie has worked diligently to support the Board, attending industry conferences such as the International Conference of Funeral Services Examining Boards. Her commitment to learning and growing in the profession has made her a tremendous asset.
The Board is now meeting regularly with well-structured agendas and clear objectives. Meetings have already been scheduled through the end of 2025, signaling a strong commitment to continuity and transparency.
License Fee Abatement Progress
A long-standing concern in Montana has been the excessive cost of licensing fees for morticians and crematory operators. The Board has been actively working to address this issue. While fee reductions can be difficult once rates are set, we’re pleased to report that license renewal dues for 2025 have been abated. This is an encouraging step forward, though efforts will continue to further reduce and stabilize fees over the long term.
Board Member Opening
Recently a seat on the Board has opened for a public member. If you know of someone who would be interested in this position, please encourage them to apply. Please remember that per Montana Code Annotated 37-1-123:
(b) A public member may not be:
(i) the spouse, parent, or child of a current or former licensee of the board; or
(ii) a person who currently or within the 3 years prior to appointment had any material financial interest in the provision of professional services or engaged in any activity related to the practice of the profession regulated by the board on which the public member is appointed to serve, except as a consumer.
As a final personal note, I would like to say to everyone who works in this amazing industry THANK YOU! As you all know, funeral service is a constantly evolving, stressful career. Oftentimes, funeral service staff are overlooked until the day comes when we need the services of you amazing people. Hold your head high and continue to provide the excellent service that you do!
CHEERS TO YOU ALL!
