Rotting bodies and fake ashes spur new regulations in Colorado

Colorado lawmakers have passed significant legislation to strengthen the state’s funeral home regulations following alarming incidents that revealed severe deficiencies in oversight. The legislative action came in response to the discovery of 190 decomposing bodies in a bug-infested funeral home and instances of fake cremation ashes and illegal trade in body parts. These revelations shed light on the weakest funeral home regulations in the U.S. and have prompted the writing of two key bills. The first bill, awaiting Governor Jared Polis’ signature, grants regulators increased enforcement powers and mandates regular inspections, including post-closure checks of facilities. The second bill, which has passed both legislative chambers, requires funeral home directors and industry personnel to undergo background checks, earn a degree in mortuary science, pass a national exam, and complete an apprenticeship. These reforms aim to rectify the current lack of mandatory educational qualifications and routine regulatory oversight, aligning Colorado’s standards with those prevalent in other states.

Source: AP News