H.B. 2158 removes that language. John Mangum, Attorney, Arizona Funeral Directors Association, testified that Wills are not probated by the time funerals are conducted. Disposition of remains is currently based on verbal instructions of a loved one. The bill creates an exception to Section 36. The bill provides financial and legal protection for the industry, but does not and cannot resolve potential family disputes.
Prepaid funerals are commonplace in the industry and are usually handled by insurance.
Mrs. Leff moved that H.B. 2158 do pass. Chairman Shaw stated that Susie Stevens, Legislative Counsel, Arizona Cemetery Association, and Michael Darus, Treasurer, Arizona Cemetery Association, do not wish to speak but support H.B. 2158 as amended. The motion carried. The motion failed. Mrs. Leff moved that H.B. 2086 as amended do pass.