What is the primary regulatory body for funeral service providers in Missouri?

The primary regulatory body for funeral service providers in Missouri is the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. This division oversees various professions, including funeral service, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations governing the practice. It establishes the requirements for licensure, sets educational standards, and enforces rules that funeral service providers must follow to operate legally and ethically in the state.

The Missouri Board of Embalmers primarily focuses on the licensing and regulation of embalmers specifically, which is a part of the wider funeral service profession. While important, it does not have the broader regulatory authority that the Division of Professional Registration holds for all aspects of funeral services.

The National Funeral Directors Association is a national organization that provides support, advocacy, and resources for funeral service professionals but does not have regulatory authority in Missouri or any other state. It plays a crucial role in industry standards and educational resources but does not govern funeral service providers at the state level.

The Missouri Department of Health has responsibilities related to public health and safety, including some aspects of funeral practices, but it does not specifically regulate funeral service providers. Its role is more about health regulations and public health concerns rather than the comprehensive oversight of the funeral service profession.