Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with funeral service regulations in Missouri?

The licensed funeral director holds the primary responsibility for ensuring compliance with funeral service regulations in Missouri. This is due to their professional training and the legal requirements that govern their practice. Funeral directors are tasked with navigating complex state laws related to the disposition of human remains, which includes obtaining necessary permits, adhering to health and safety standards, and ensuring that all ethical practices are followed during the provision of funeral services.

While the funeral establishment owner may also play a role in ensuring compliance, particularly in operational aspects, it is the licensed funeral director, who must be directly involved in the services being provided and in ensuring that regulatory standards are met throughout the entire process. Additionally, the state board of embalmers primarily governs the licensing and practice standards, without direct operational responsibilities, and the family of the deceased does not have any formal role in regulatory compliance.