House Resolution No. by Representative Walters establishes a subcommittee within the House Committee on Commerce to investigate the need for state regulation, credentialing, and oversight of individuals working as funeral planners, end-of-life doulas, and similar roles. The resolution highlights the rapid growth in demand for these services, noting that currently, no state requires licensure or certification for practitioners in this field. The absence of regulation poses risks, including potential civil liability for licensed funeral establishments and consumer confusion regarding qualifications. The subcommittee is tasked with making recommendations for policy and legislative changes by November 1, 2026.

The resolution outlines specific areas for the subcommittee to consider, including defining relevant terms, establishing licensure and education standards, prohibiting undisclosed fees, and ensuring transparency in contracts. It also emphasizes the need for public hearings to gather input from industry professionals and stakeholders. The chair of the House Committee on Commerce will lead the initial meeting of the subcommittee, which is to occur by August 1, 2026. The resolution aims to address the regulatory gaps in the funeral planning and end-of-life service sectors to protect consumers and licensed professionals alike.