What does the "Funeral Rule" regulate?

The "Funeral Rule," which is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), regulates the practices of funeral providers in the United States, particularly regarding the transparency and fairness of pricing and the purchase of funeral merchandise. Specifically, it requires that funeral directors provide consumers with a detailed itemized list of prices for services and merchandise, enabling consumers to make informed decisions.

This rule addresses mandatory practices, such as how funeral directors must present information to consumers about their options, including the costs associated with various services (like embalming and caskets) and any associated merchandise. It ensures that consumers have the right to choose which services they want while being informed of the costs, without pushy sales tactics or hidden fees.

In contrast, the other choices focus on specific aspects of funeral services that are not directly covered by the Funeral Rule. The cost of cremation services, requirements for embalming bodies, and criteria for burial plots fall outside the primary scope of the rule, which emphasizes transparency in service pricing and the rights of consumers.