What happens to a funeral director's license in Missouri if they are convicted of a felony?

In Missouri, a funeral director's license is subject to strict regulations, and a felony conviction can have serious implications for that license. If a funeral director is convicted of a felony, the law provides for the potential for immediate suspension or revocation of their license by the Missouri State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors. This action is taken to uphold the integrity of the profession and ensure that licensed individuals meet the ethical and legal standards required to practice.

The rationale behind this automatic consequence for felony convictions is rooted in public safety and the trust placed in professionals in the funeral industry. The nature of the work involves caring for the deceased and supporting grieving families, and any criminal behavior that undermines that trust or indicates unprofessional conduct can result in disciplinary action.

As a result, facing immediate suspension or revocation acts as a protective measure for consumers and the reputation of the funeral industry in Missouri. Other options, such as remaining active with no consequences or simply being fined, fail to address the serious nature of felony convictions and their impact on the individual's ability to uphold the standards necessary for their profession.