Task Force on Not-for-Profit Funeral Establishments

SB 722 establishes a temporary task force to study whether Maryland should allow not-for-profit funeral homes - businesses that operate without seeking profit - to serve the public. The task force, composed of appointed members including legislative leaders, funeral industry representatives, and specialists from African American, Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, and Protestant communities, will analyze current licensing data, reasons for denied applications, and similar laws in other states. It will specifically assess the feasibility, necessity, and potential impact of permitting such not-for-profit services in Maryland. The task force must submit its findings and recommendations to the Governor and legislature by December 1, 2026, and the bill expires automatically on September 30, 2027.