Industry probe turns up widespread compliance

Journal Record, The (Oklahoma City), Jul 26, 1996

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- State and federal investigators found substantial compliance with federal law during a recent sweep of more than 20 funeral homes in central Oklahoma, Attorney General Drew Edmondson said Thursday.

"It is gratifying to announce the results of an investigation that turned up no wrongdoing," Edmondson said.

The undercover operation was a joint venture of Edmondson's office and the Federal Trade Commission.

All of the funeral homes were found to be in compliance with an FTC rule requiring them to deal fairly with consumers.

Under the rule, funeral homes must give consumers a price list and not force them to purchase a package deal. Once a sale is made, consumers are guaranteed a itemized list of goods and services.

Edmondson said probes in other states, including Florida and Tennessee, led to civil prosecution of funeral home operators, who received fines ranging from $4,000 to $35,000.