As you all know, we recently wrapped up our Mid-Winter Conference here in Helena. We had a great turnout and some great CE opportunities. It was nice to mingle with the association members and catch up on what is happening with everyone. I always enjoy seeing all of you.

Now to the update on what we are watching: 

Health Savings Accounts: New legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives, the “Funeral Coverage Act of 2024” (H.R. 7963), which would designate funeral expenses as a qualified expense eligible for coverage under Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). This means that families that have saved money for healthcare expenses can use those funds for funeral and burial expenses after the person dies and no longer needs the money for healthcare costs. 

Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act (S. 2191/H.R. 4275), which has been introduced in both the House and Senate, will provide the Secretary of HHS with oversight and authority over facilities that receive donated human bodies and body parts for education and research. The bill will protect the dignity of donors and give families peace of mind by creating standards for inspection, chain of custody, labeling and packaging, and proper disposition. 

We are still watching the EPA and its formaldehyde ruling. There is still some discussion and rumblings on the effects of formaldehyde in our industry. We were told there will be some more panel meetings and studies to come. 

Lastly, the Funeral Rule is being reviewed by the FTC. This issue is to keep on our radars. There are meetings and committees on the revisions, but nothing has been implemented or moved on yet. We need to keep this in mind and wait and see what will transpire. 

We will be flying into D.C. for the Advocacy Summit in April. With the new administration and some new Montana lawmakers, it will be an interesting event. I will keep you all posted, and I hope to have some new information as soon as we get back. Stay warm and God Bless.