A Message from MFDA's CPC

Funeral Directors in Michigan have, for generations, worked to earn the trust and confidence of their communities in times of need. The Michigan Funeral Directors Association has long believed that what is good for consumers is good for the professionals that serve them. Over the past thirty years, however, the marketplace for funeral goods and services has changed. More and more people are selling products related to funerals, cemeteries, memorials and associated services. Not everyone in the marketplace is a licensed funeral director and cases of consumer abuse and hard-sell tactics have increased. In an effort to educate consumers and to promote regulatory and professional codes of good conduct, especially related to the pre-arrangement, pre-funding, and pre-selling of funeral services, MFDA has worked hand in hand with the Last Rights Coalition and the media to inform consumers about the pre-arrangement process.

The Consumer Protection Committee of the Michigan Funeral Directors Association is deeply concerned with the trust and good will of the consumers of Michigan. Out of that concern, the committee worked hand in hand with the Michigan Attorney General’s office in the publication of the AG’s Consumer Alert on funerals.

The Consumer Alert spells out in detail some of the possible pitfalls of pre-funding a funeral. It is the recommendation of the Consumer Protection Committee that any consumer interested in pre-arranging or pre-financing a funeral in the State of Michigan read the AG’s alert prior to becoming obligated to a Funeral Home, Cemetery, Insurance Agent or any one else selling or providing goods or services related to a funeral.

Additionally, if consumers feel as though they have experienced mistreatment by a provider of funeral goods or services they are encouraged to contact the Consumer Protection Committee of the Michigan Funeral Directors Association and whenever possible the committee will assist in resolving any difficulties. Our Committee can assist in directing the consumer to the proper agency for assistance. These agencies include the Grievance and Ethics Committee of MFDA, The Consumer and Industry Services Division of the State of Michigan and the Michigan Attorney Generals Office.

Sincerely,

Patrick E. Lynch
MFDA Immediate Past President