On Monday morning, Governor Asa Hutchinson signed the ERAVE amendment bill, HB1659, into law. Among those there to witness were AFDA President, Kenny Culpepper, Executive Director, Chad Gallagher, and lead sponsor Representative Mark Perry (Jacksonville).

This bill closes some of the loopholes in the requirements to file death certificates electronically. By tightening the restrictions requiring the use of ERAVE, we can trust that families will be better served with death certificates being filed more promptly. This will be a significant help for families as they manage the estate of their loved one and carry out all the necessary tasks associated with the period of loss.

This is a result of multiple years of educating legislators. Above all, AFDA wishes to thank all of you who have helped make this possible by raising awareness and contacting your local representative or senator.

The new updates to the law will come into effect in July, 90 days after the legislative session ends. We will work with the Arkansas Department of Health and medical board to help with implementing the enforcement of the new provisions. At that time we will provide our members the best path for resolving problems that may arise.

Congrats to all! It’s a great accomplishment by the funeral directors of our state to better serve Arkansans!