The bill amends several sections of South Dakota law to increase licensure fees associated with the practice of funeral service and cremation. Specifically, it establishes that the renewal fee for a funeral service license may not exceed $225, while the application fee for a funeral establishment license and its renewal may not exceed $350. Additionally, the bill mandates that each crematory must be licensed, with an initial licensure fee also capped at $350. The bill outlines the requirements for obtaining and renewing these licenses, including the need for inspections by the State Board of Funeral Service to ensure compliance with state laws.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that all licenses issued under this chapter will expire on December 31st of each year, and renewal applications must be submitted in December. The State Board of Funeral Service is tasked with promulgating rules to establish the fees and ensure that inspections of crematories occur at least once every three years. The bill also includes a directive for the board to amend specific administrative rules regarding fees by September 30, 2025, detailing the nonrefundable fees for various licenses and registrations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/03/2025: 36-19-25, 36-19-27, 36-19-37, 34-26A-4.1, 34-26A-4.2
Enrolled, 03/05/2025: 36-19-25, 36-19-27, 36-19-37, 34-26A-4.1, 34-26A-4.2