FTC Testifies on Efforts to Protect Consumers in the Funeral Industry

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection of the Committee on Energy and Commerce that the FTC will work with the Subcommittee and others to explore ways to deploy the FTC’s experience and resources in connection with the recent grievous events at the historic Burr Oak Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois, and in addressing consumer protection concerns regarding cemeteries.

The testimony, presented by Charles Harwood, Deputy Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, commended Subcommittee Chairman Bobby L. Rush for holding the field hearing in Chicago, Illinois, on oversight of cemeteries and other funeral services. The FTC also lauded Illinois authorities’ thorough and rapid response to the desecrations at Burr Oak Cemetery, and stated that the agency is prepared to cooperate and coordinate with these authorities and take further action if warranted. The Commission vote authorizing the testimony was 4-0.

The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint in English or Spanish, visit the FTC’s online Complaint Assistant or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357). The FTC enters complaints into Consumer Sentinel, a secure, online database available to more than 1,500 civil and criminal law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. The FTC’s Web site provides free information on a variety of consumer topics.