The national Funeral Consumers Alliance and the Consumer Federation of America just released a fascinating report. They surveyed over 1,000 funeral homes across the country to see if they post their general price list (GPL) on their website.

The 1984 Funeral Rule requires that funeral homes provide consumers with a written, itemized price list if they visit in-person, as well as provide a price quote over the phone if requested. It's shocking that this is the only federal legislation that governs the funeral industry... and it hasn't been updated since it was originally written!

Many advocacy organizations (including PMA!) are recommending that the Federal Trade Commission update this legislation to require funeral homes to post their pricing on their websites.

We know that the current rules place an undue burden on grieving consumers as they seek to make informed decisions about deathcare, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Of the over 2,000 funeral consumers surveyed separately earlier this year, 41% said that when they were planning a funeral they only visited one funeral home to obtain a price list!

As ever, we remain dedicated to advocating for our members and for affordable, high quality funeral services. We also believe it is important to consider our contracted providers, many of whom are local small business owners. We are very intentional about who we partner with, which helps us guarantee those businesses share our values and abide by our Code of Ethics as they support you and your loved ones.

The PMA Board of Directors and Contracts Committee has extended to our contracted funeral homes the option to add a $60 premium to the cost of any PMA Plan for cremation or burial. PMA member families may be charged this premium on funeral services provided between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023. This premium is in response to rising gas prices, inflation, and labor shortages that both our state and country are experiencing.

Did you know you can donate Washington burial plots to PMA? Maybe you were gifted a plot you don't need, have changed your mind about your disposition option, or plan to be buried alongside a spouse elsewhere.

When you donate your plot to PMA, we are able to resell them for steeply discounted rates. This helps folks make smart financial decisions about their burial... and those funds are reinvested back into PMA's programming!

Interested in donating a plot? Let us know! Thinking you might like to purchase one of our available cemetery plots? Visit our website to see what's available!

1. Visit the cemetery to make sure you like the plot! While you're there, touch base with the cemetery staff about any additional costs, as well as learn about any restrictions they might have about how you use the plot.

2. Let us know that you're ready to pay for the plot!

3. Attend a short meeting with the cemetery staff and PMA staff to complete the necessary paperwork to transfer the deed from us to you.

People's Memorial Association is the trusted resource and thought-leader for funeral choice, education, and advocacy in Washington State. We envision a future where everyone has access to after-death arrangements that reflect their personal values and resources. Our essential work is only made possible by donors like you. Visit peoplesmemorial.org today to donate today.