The Funeral Services Modernization Amendment Act of 2026 aims to update the District of Columbia Funeral Services Regulatory Act of 1984 by introducing new definitions and modifying existing requirements related to funeral directing and embalming. Key changes include the creation of an embalmers license, the revision of apprenticeship requirements for both funeral directors and embalmers, and the incorporation of embalming practices into the regulations governing fraud and license revocation. The bill also updates the composition of the Board of Funeral Directors to include more consumer representation and expertise in cremation or alkaline hydrolysis.

Specific amendments include the replacement of the term "apprentice funeral directors" with "embalmers, apprenticeships," and the addition of new definitions for "embalmer" and "practice of embalming." The requirements for obtaining a funeral director's license have been revised, including the completion of an apprenticeship and educational qualifications. Additionally, the bill stipulates that apprentices must work under the direct supervision of licensed professionals and outlines the necessary training hours and tasks for both funeral directing and embalming apprentices. Overall, the bill seeks to modernize the regulatory framework governing funeral services in the District of Columbia.