MFDEA Podcast: Recent Episodes
Don Otto
0.00 - Greeting
0.29 - Election News: Amendment 5 had historic defeat
1.45 - Donor News
6.09 - Overtime rule change (old movie reference)
14.55 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.16 - Other amendments on the August vote
1.58 - Amendment 4 review
14.24 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.00 - Navigating website compliance with Americans Disability Act
13.20 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.22 - Cindy is retiring - party on 6/26
1.22 - Convention recap
2.55 - Scam update
4.50 - Preneed and exclusion of assets for qualifying for public assistance
20.25 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.12 - June 10th is last day to register online!
1.45 - New & old scams that have affected FDs.
9.42 - Court of Appeals says sales tax amendment can go to vote in Aug.
14.56 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.25 - Follow up on service sales tax questions.
11.35 - Convention News
13.38 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.18 - Convention News
1.40 - St Louis post office discovered huge pile of dumped mail. How such an event can affect your funeral home.
3.25 - Final bill news now that legislative session is closed.
12.25 - Services sales tax goes to vote in August.
22.15 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.10 - Convention News
2.20 - Consumers questioning retainage fee on trust funded preneed contract when cancelling.
21.30 - New Convention News
22.22 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.20 - Convention News
3.12 - Cremated Remains - liabilities & things to consider
21.56 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
00.37 - Recap of District 6 & 7 event and Cozean funeral
1.24 - Portability of a preneed contract and what is required
11.00 - Transfer preneed contract out of state?
15.46 - Happy Thanksgiving!
0.00 - Memorial info for Jon Cozean
2.00 - Kids NOK in divorce, filed not final, and not married situations
8.25 - Wrap up and vacation thanks
0.00 - Greetings
1.11 - Old movie reference
3.23 - Final reminder for Preneed reports
5.10 - NFDA & MO convention info
6.37 - National news, gov't. still shut down
7.20 - National news, body broker bill news
9.10 - National news, FTC news, new chairman possible
11.44 - State news, possible changes affecting funeral service
17.40 - wrap-up
0.00 - Greetings
0.28 - NFDA conference in Chicago
2.44 - last time for this deadline reminder, promise
4.50 - another scam, this time from Elks lodges
5.46 - new electronic death certificate system, training
7.08 - if both spouses die at same time what do you put for marital status?
12.14 - wrap-up
0.00 - Greetings
1.24 - Email Scam: gift card request from organization or its leaders
4.42 - How federal govt shutdown may affect you
8.32 - How federal govt. shutdown affects the funeral industry
12.58 - NFDA conference in Chicago last week in October
14.00 - Missouri Funeral Director magazine published this week
15.23 - MFDEA membership dues renewal coming soon
15.47 - MFDEA building issue, water leak
17.45 - Weekend events for Bicentennial in Jefferson City
0.00 - Greetings, Office closure, schedule notes
1.55 - Renew Preneed Seller/Provider online EARLY! Don explains why.
Note: Annual report (paper) due 10/31/25
4.21 - Scam: Pay for the band and get reimbursed by credit card. Don't!
7.50 - Who can take Law Class Review?
11.33 - Recap and Closing
0.00 - Greetings
0.37 - New computer system for preneed license renewals
4.23 - Can family get refund on an irrevocable preneed plan?
14.21 - A la carte funerals & families trying to complete death certificates
18.42 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings
0.13 - Legislative news: redistricting and how it may affect you
7.50 - You can get fired for social media posts...or almost anything
13.10 - Social Security Update letters are NOT state programs
17.56 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings
0.24 - Personal reflections on 9/11
10.00 - State Board Meeting Update
13.25 - Transferring pre-need contracts to Out Of State funeral homes
18.40 - Is it legal for people to "bury their own"?
21.30 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings
0.14 - Pre-need renewal time - new system, renew early this year.
8.12 - Misconception with new law - you still have to pass Law Test.
10.55 - Follow up joint acct question - can I switch to an ins. policy?
13.51 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings, the one with the pivot
0.25 - MFDEA directory scam alert
2.05 - New laws now in affect:
- new licensing law - what to do if you're in an apprenticeship
- repeal for minimum wage w/ inflation and mandatory sick leave
- nat'l law - minimus tarrif exception eliminated,
- pay MO sales tax on vehicle immediately, no longer have 30 days
- MO repealed the capitol gains tax
- protecting pregnant woman in work place act reminder
16.37 - Banks trying to help FH's w/ true joint accounts
28.38 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings, the one with the pivot
0.40 - Bank letters regarding joint pre-paid funeral accounts
22.11 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings
1.15 - NFDA body broker bill pending
10.30 - Major focus change by US armed forces.
- How it affects the funeral industry and how you can prepare.
15.00 - August 28 MO law goes in affect on recently passed bill
18.56 - If you have a body broker incident you wish to share call Don
20.19 - Closing
20.58 - FTC Funeral Rule update
0.00 - Greetings
1.20 - Who's money is it anyway? Preneed contracts, beneficiaries, etc.
18.01 - Closing
0.00 - Greetings
0.30 - History & Group 1 of NPS receivership checks
10.35 - Group 2 of the NPS receivership checks
21.15 - Recap + MFDEA involvement
26.05 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting on the 200th Video!
0.35 - FHs receiving NPS receivorship checks
4.02 - Gov signed bill that stops mandatory sick leave
5.51 - Gov signed Chevron Doctriine bill
10.55 - Office schedule, Law Class & NFDA conferences
13.13 - Recap and closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - Senate Bill 150 - no news yet
1.30 - Internet legal advice limitations, how Don can help
15.25 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.33 - Preneed financial examinations
6.56 - 2026 convention
7.40 - State board website update / complaints
11.16 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - Flag Day
2.08 - State Board Update
23.26 - Announcing 2026 MFDEA Convention location
25.12 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.12 - D-Day Remembrance
1.47 - Legislative Special Session News
6.28 - Law Test still has to be passed to get license
11.00 - State Board meeting next week
11.13 - Don's rainy vacation
12.42 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.16 - Employment legal things you need to know
1.15 - Status update on Prop A - Sick Leave Policy
7.32 - Pre-employment job shadowing form (new)
10.31 - Employee manuals and key inclusions
14.06 - Newest generation (Gen Z) in workforce
22.31 - Wrap up
23.53 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.30 - Free webinar 5/22 on New Sick Leave Policy
- Register here: https://mochamber.com/event/understanding-proposition-a-webinar/
6.15 - Knell Award and 2025 recipient
9.35 - Congratulations to Service Award Pin Recipients
10.17 - MFDEA Scholarship info
13.40 - Special session happening in MO
15.58 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - New news on Bill 150
8.07 - New sick leave law in affect thru August
10.30 - Minimum wage change
14.57 - Upcoming NFDA webinar
16.00 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.15 - Senate Bill 150 Advancement
4.54 - Convention recap
7.54 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - Office schedule during convention
3.30 - Annual meeting elections
5.31 - more Q & A on sales tax
6.56 - MO sick leave law possibly in affect 5/1/2025
11.00 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.30 - MO Sales Tax for Funeral Homes
13.46 - Official rule for Transparency Act
15.11 - Convention News
17.12 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.33 - USPS Cremains Shipping Update
5.16 - Hispanic names on death certificates
9.30 - Court Order death certificate correction issues
13.58 - flourescent bulk purchasing tip
15.56 - Convention News
18.10 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.12 - Sign language interpreter funeral requirements
4.31 - MO Bill 351 progress report
6.45 - Member call to action!
7.09 - NFDA legislative day, US Congress bill news
10.51 - Tri-State Convention news
11.59 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.00 - Tips to avoid court orders on DC corrections
9.37 - News on MoEVRS upgrade
22.06 - Contact us if you want to be part of Pilot program
22.50 - Corp Transparency Act new rules
25.27 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.21 - Legislative Update, bill fully passed out of house
9.04 - What are legal options for remaining insurance money on a preneed?
18.23 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.28 - follow up question to electronic signature topic
1.35 - USPS new regulations on shipping cremains
13.00 - USPS delivery system changes nationwide
15.53 - MFT is completely online
18.32 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.17 - Vital Records short turnaround for death certs
2.47 - Corp Transp. Act changed again
6.46 - Are electronic signatures legal in MO?
8.39 - When are notaries required on signatures?
10.53 - Don's schedule next week
12.36 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.17 - New deadline for Corporate Transparency Act
6.20 - Scam alerts and what can be done to avoid
13.20 - When can you cremate someone? (please call office if you need details lost due to glitch)
17.30 - Glitchy apologies in closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.17 - AI (artificial intelligence) is generating wrong info on funeral related topics. What funeral directors need to know.
22.0 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.36 - Legislative Day - no experience necessary!
3.00 - Senate Bill 351 details
4.10 - MFT Annual meeting and dinner details
4.42 - NOK Rules revisited
7.38 - Is this a real POA? What does a Durable POA need?
15.35 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.16 - More on Corporate Transparency Act
7.27 - President Trump actions that may affect you
8.08 - Marlon Brando/Godfather impersonation
16.30 - Airfare prices based on computer usage
20.15 - Editorial comment on Corp Transparency Act
22.06 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.50 - Tips to get Hispanic names correct on death
certificate amendments and what to do if you didn't.
8.20 - Question of the day: Do funeral home employees
need to have a chauffers license (class E)?
15.51 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.22 - No change in Corp. Transparence Act since 12.30
0.57 - New licensing website from Div. Prof. Reg. soon
2.26 - MO Veterans Cemeteries appl. online now
3.36 - What happens to preneeds in FH consolidations?
14.38 - Closing
0.00 - Intro with SNL reference
1.47 - Corporate Transparency Act changed again
5.51 - What should you do now?
6.48 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.44 - Corporate Transparency Act, new filing deadline
6.34 - Home burial case by native american family ok?
7.41 - Steps and laws for private land burial.
15.40 - Deeding family burial grounds to the county.
18.35 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.20 - NFDA Consumer Survey
1.03 - OSHA Zoom Training on Dec. 12 at 3 - 4 pm
2.18 - Beneficial Ownership Transparency Act news
8.40 - End of the year deadlines
11.30 - New MoEVRS computer system update
14.58 - New Professional Registration system for license renewals soon
15.54 - Wrap up
16.38 - Legislative 2025 Update
19.00 - Stay Safe!
0.00 - Greeting
1.40 - OSHA Zoom Training - 12/12 at 3 - 4 pm
4.00 - Friday, 12/6, NFDA 2024 Consumer Survey
5.47 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - MO Prop A passed, how it affects employers
14.40 - Scheduling notes,
17.00 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.25 - Federal election results may affect funeral industry
13.04 - Missouri election results that may affect you
15.43 - Important note on death certificate corrections
21.25 - Still no result on House of Representatives
22.15 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.46 - A good story from Don
2.18 - News from recent NFDA conference
4.46 - Funeral rule update
5.52 - Shout out to Pursuit of Excellence award winners
6.26 - Long form death certificate issue
7.56 - News on upcoming bill effort
12.25 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.52 - How can a family do a burial on private land?
4.45 - How to contact Don on holidays and after-hours
5.04 - NFDA convention / Don's schedule
7.03 - Pre-need renewals and report due by 10/31
9.10 - Social Security funeral scam going around again
11.05 - Minor children next of kin complications
16.55 - Closing
17.18 - Columbus Day news
18.07 - Indigenous Day and Don's interesting lineage
0.00 - Greeting
0.20 - Cozean 160th Celebration
3.00 - Hurricane Helene Funeral Support
6.42 - Don's favorite Jon Cozean story
8.15 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.16 - Farewell to Vicki Gwin, MFT
2.35 - Employee vs Independent Contractor
10.22 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
3.15 - Next of Kin vs POA rights, court case ruling
5.22 - This week's dispute & results
7.41 - Attn Owners: Beneficial Owners Info report must be completed by end of year at www.fincen.gov/boi
13.25 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - Hindu Funerals
3.30 - Observing cremation process
10.10 - Closing
Timing:
0.00 - Greeting
1.00 - Heartfelt thank you from Don
5.50 - State Board meeting Thursday
9.15 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.54 - Credit Breach Explanation
6.23 - Issues w/ 3rd party websites that steal obits
14.33 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.42 - Next of kin refusing financial responsibility
5.12 - Exact reading of statute
7.07 - Get it in writing
12.19 - What if you get an objection?
12.58 - Law Classes at MFDEA
14.13 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.36 - Who gets 2 checks from NPS?
2.33 - Who has final disposition when a minor child dies?
7.43 - Annual National Survey Results - important take-aways
21.0 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
031 - Breaking News: NPS checks
5.50 - State Board passed emergency rule
10.13 - MFT provider instructions
13.57 - Thank you's
15.43 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.15 - Meet Don's oldest granddaughter
0.56 - Just Say No! to email scam
4.39 - Is it legal? Just Say No!
11.40 - A la carte services? Just Say No!
15.07 - Teaser for next week / closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.50 - When FH needs to be relicensed
18.32 - What about ownership change?
23.49 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.33 - Slow mail proceessing in KC area
2.39 - NPS complaint
4.10 - A typical day for Don Otto
16.16 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.28 - Bobby Wood Visitation
2.12 - Chevron Deference Doctrine Update
14.32 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.46 - Unclaimed cremated remains
1.16 - What are the unclaimed rules?
5.30 - A new option for unclaimed remains
12.04 - District meeting resources
14.22 - Training on new MoEVRS system
15.27 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - Buchholz Mortuary 75th Annivesary
1.58 - Convention Highlights
5.38 - Court Order Requirement for DC
10.57 - multiple NOK sign off requirements
16.24 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.45 - Last Minute Convention Info
3.05 - Scam Alert for Funeral Homes
6.05 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
0.36 - Capitol legislative session update
11.00 - Minors in the right of sepulcher hierarchy
14.30 - Closing
0.00 Greeting - live at the MO Capitol
0.21 Senate Scoop
0.55 Chance for our bill?
3.40 live tour of Capitol grounds
4.07 Convention and Law Class Event News
5.40 Closing
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.21 - Margaritaville Resort Convention in June
0.32 - Why we have convention registration deadlines
1.45 - Events and speaker highlights
8.43 - Is it legal for a funeral home to sell gift cards?
11.00 - closing
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.20 - Convention Hotel Deadline reminder
1.30 - FTC news on non-compete agreements
5.08 - FTC news on over-time rules
6.36 - DC corrections that require a court order, what is needed
13.58 - Closing
100th MFDEA Podcast!
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.15 - Lesson to new FD's/students but interesting for everyone
15.50 - Special message to funeral directors
16.10 - Closing
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.05 - Eclipse experience
1.00 - Crunch time at the Capitol and we need your help!
6.25 - Convention in June, should have recieved registration email
7.50 - Pre-event and speaker details
10.26 - Closing
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.36 - Convention Overview. Join us in Lake of the Ozarks on June 8 - 11.
4.30 - New release form to cover funeral home if cemetery marks wrong spot.
7.26 - Closing
0.00 - Greeting
1.18 - Advocacy Summit info & bill support
1.55 - The body broker bill regulating whole body donations
3.33 - Using a HSA (health savings acct) to pay for a funeral
5.33 - Write our senators and representatives to show support
5.52 - Missouri bill support and our legislative day
6.20 - Come by MFDEA booth at MO Capitol and offer support
6.30 - Licensing bill details and advancement
7.26 - Booth, bills, and talking points
7.35 - How to easily chat up your legislatures and staff
8.50 - MFT Providers Invited to Annual meeting tomorrow
9.12 - Openings on MFT Board, nominations
9.56 - Will anything get passed this year? Why so slow?
11.53 - Write your US senator or representative
12.29 - Can't make legislative day? Write your state rep and senators.
12.58 - Closing - no video or podcast on Friday
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.22 - Quirky Questions Day
0.40 - Quirky #1 - unusual next of kin sitations
7.47 - Quirk #2 - spontaneous fetal death next of kin
10.43 - Quirk #3 - What happens when person dies on a moving vehicle
13.20 - Next weekly update may be live from DC
15.15 - Next week's schedule
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.17 - More on NPS Letters & orphaned contracts
3.44 - FH's getting NPS money?
5.30 - Bill on FD licensing advancement
6.53 - Please Come To Legislative Day. Here's why.
8.40 - Convention News
9.22 - Family Burial Grounds Q & A
14.35 - Closing comments
15.08 - Upcoming Events, Weekly Update on location
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Why no video last couple of weeks
1.25 - Latest info on NPS letters
17.21 - Education Bill movement
17.38 - Legislative Day Update
18.10 - Closing
Timing & Topics:
0.00 - Opening remarks
1.56 - Funeral Rule News
4.03 - Back story on the FTC Funeral Rule
9.15 - Timing and what it may mean
10.55 - Expectations on new Funeral Rule
13.00 - What to do if you get a call from media?
20.56 - Closing comments
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Opening remarks
0.17 - latest issue of MFD magazine published today
0.41 - Don's magazine article discussed the Chevron doctrine
2.29 - member highlights and pacemaker donation article also of interest
3.34 - Beware of NPS receivorship letters about possible payments
6.55 - US Patriot Services - share any experience you may have with them
9.19 - Infant death distinctions and who is in charge
13.97 - Thank you for video update suggestions
14.10 - Capitol update: some philibustering has stopped and some gubernatorial appointments moving forward
15.00 - Legislative Day details and why it's even more important
15.16 - Closing remarks
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Greetings / Intro
0.44 - FTC Caught 39 FHs in Secret Shopper Investigation That Did Not Follow Funeral Rule Correctly
3.33 - Effective 1/10/2024, change on who is an independent contractor
6.48 - Capitol Update on Education Bill's lack of advancement
10.48 - Death certificate method of disposition when donating a whole body
13.45 - Death cert. method of disposition when sending body out of state
15.22 - Closing
Topics and timing:
0.00 - Greeting
1.11 - New Law Corporate Transparency Act and how it may affect you
2.45 - Criteria for corporations that must file
4.00 - Who must report
6.44 - What info is required to be sent to the federal government
9.29 - Exemptions
14.50 - Watch for scammers regarding this new law
16.39 - Closing comments. Stay Warm!
Topics and timing:
0.00 - Intro & Greeting
0.45 - Opening Events & Trouble Week 1 at MO Capitol
5.04 - Spontaneous Fetal Death Statutes
12.53 - Law Classes Start Up Soon
Topics and timing:
0.00 - Greeting & Intro
1.05 - Status of adopted children
5.20 - Supporting first and last responders
6.40 - Uber code to save money on NYE
7.53 - 2023 Recap
Happy New Year! Stay safe.
Topic and Timing:
0.00 - Christmas greetings from your MFDEA Staff
1.30 - MO Supreme Court struck down senate bill 1606 and why
11.47 - Coroners, the bill being struck down may affect you
18.48 - Happy Holidays and Stay Safe!
Topic and Timing:
0.00 - Greeting and Intro
1.10 - State Board thoughts on bill for 2024
2.36 - Don's hand painted MO Capitol ties
3.45 - State Board Disciplinary hearing notes
5.47 - Who is the legal mother during a surrogacy birth?
7.53 - Funeral Home visits on Friday and why?
10.04 - Funeral establishment license renewal due by 12/31/2023
MFDEA Annual Dues are also duey by 12/31/2023
12.00 - Don's schedule remainder of the week.
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.15 - Remembering Pearl Harbor Day
0.34 - Don answers why certain rules exist.
0.49 - Rules for burials at sea & exceptions
4.50 - Why embalm 25 bodies to become licensed embalmer?
6.35 - Why conduct 10 funerals to become licensed funeral director?
7.35 - Why 40 degrees to store a body?
11.32 - Time required to put preneed money where it's supposed to go?
17.15 - Why is it so hard to get legislation passed?
22.27 - Mark Your Calendar for Legislative Day
23.21 - Stay Safe!
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - December greeting
0.45 - 1st 2024 legislative report
3.00 - First bill - Education: reorganize & create alternative path to license
15.55 - Second bill - Increase dollar limit for preneed license CE requirement
18.42 - Annual dues email reminder - thank you if you already paid
20.43 - Bills may be confusing - call for clarification
21.41 - Stay safe closing
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.40 - MFT electronic contracts available now
3.10 - Movie Review for Funeral Industry
6.40 - Movie Lesson for Preneed Industry
14.39 - Happy Thanksgiving
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
1.46 - NPS receivorship update
3.43 - Interstate preneed contracts & complications
14.34 - NPS letters regarding money from receivorship
18.00 - Stay safe over upcoming Thanksgiving weekend
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Greeting (please overlook mixup on dates)
0.34 - Obit search click bait
4.15 - Embalming room floors, walls & ceilings requirements
7.53 - History of Veterans Day
10.06 - History of poem that inspired the poppy to become a symbol
12.26 - History of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
15.24 - Reading of poem In Flander Field by John McCrae
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Halloween Greeting
1.49 - Insurance issue when ex-spouse assigns funeral home as beneficiary
9.10 - What to do with fetal death
16.50 - Last day to submit preneed provider & seller license renewals
17.32 - Halloween Safety
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Halloween Greeting
0.19 - Halloween-Last day to submit preneed provider & seller license renewals
1.10 - Preneed agent registration due by November 30th
1.18 - Insurance issue when ex-spouse assigns funeral home as beneficiary
5.38 - Questions on fetus disposition
Timing for Topics:
0.00 - Greetings
0.14 - It's Preneed time! 10/31/23 deadline to renew your preneed license.
3.35 - Next of kin & cremation authorization
12.36 - Reminder to get preneed filings in before October 31st
12.57 - Preneed agent registration is due by November 30th
14.25 - Avoid confusion - don't put MFT on your annual sellers report.
Topics:
0.00 Greeting using new internet provider
1.15 Sad news on passing of a couple of long-term members
2.40 Missouri Funeral Trust, a preneed option for members of MFDEA
3.07 MFT passed phase 2 audit by the State Board
5.25 New! Online contracts for MFT
11.08 Board proposing alternative path to become licensed FD & Embalmer
13.52 Second possible proposal to allow testing during apprenticeship
16.24 Third possible proposal to clear up licensing requirement statutes
17.44 Two signficant advantages of being a Missouri Funeral Trust seller
Topics:
0.00 - Greeting
0.30 - FTC things that could affect funeral directors
1.14 - FTC attorney comments from NFDA conv/changes to funeral rule
5.20 - GPL confusion, complaints and suggested solutions
9.07 - Open comment period is still open
11.52 - FTC forum available on FTC website
12.08 - Check your GPL and finding the purple book
13.25 - Internet company issues with Heritage (or other names)
15.48 - FTC on the alert for fake funeral home spammers
17.59 - No video/podcast next week due to internet installation
19.27 - Closing remarks
Topics:
0.00 - Greetings from Las Vegas NFDA Convention
1.13 - New FTC Rule Update
1.46 - Walk through convention space
2.44 - Pursuit of Excellence recognition Cozean FC & Holman-Howe FH
4.42 - Exhibit hall tour with exhibitor hello's
20.56 - more on FTC Rule changes
22.36 - 1926 Studebaker Hearse
23.18 - Watch for updated MFDEA cremation documents online
24.48 - No video or podcast Friday.
Topics:
0.00 - Greeting, some housekeeping items
0.50 - Video next week different day
1.35 - Shout out to those who attended bill signing ceremony
3.15 - 2024 bill focus on educational change proposal
4.32 - 2024 bill focus on exemption for ins cont educ for ins producers lic
5.33 - Fake news funeral industry story alerts
10.16 - Watch out for video from NFDA convention next week
12.02 - Stay Safe!
NPS Claim Information
As previously discussed, the claims for National Prearranged Services contracts which were through Lincoln Memorial Life and that were being processed by the Receivership in Texas, are now being handled by the Missouri Insurance Guarantee Association.
Below is the official letter announcing this change and giving you the needed contact information. Also, you can find the information regarding documents here: https://moiga.org/?p=2776
Note: As of this email, several of these documents on the Missouri Guaranty Association,still refer to the Receiver in Texas. MFDEA has contacted the Guaranty Association about this and they are in the process of changing them, but , in any case, do not send them to Texas! Send them to the Missouri Guarantee Association.
Again, this is only for claims that would have gone to the Texas Receivership for Lincoln Memorial Claims. Claims on other contracts/policies that have been going to outside insurance companies that took over different books of business other than the Lincoln Memorial contracts will still be handled by them.
One of the documents requested is a copy of the Death Certificate. As many of you know from hearing Don Otto's talks and classes, Missouri law states that it is technically illegal for anyone other than the state of Missouri to make reproductions of Death Certificates. This includes photocopies and scans.
HOWEVER, way back when all of this was first going on, MFDEA alerted the Governor's office of this issue and the Governor issued an Executive Order that stated, for the sole purpose of making an NPS claim, the funeral home can make a copy of the death certificate. You then write the word "COPY" on the copy of the death certificate and you can then fax or email that copy (with the word "copy" on it) when making your claim.
If you have any questions, call the Missouri Insurance Guaranty Association at: 573-634-8455. If you get their voicemail, be sure to leave a message and call-back number.
Notice-of-Policy-Administration-Change.pdf
Topics:
0.00 - Reason for bonus video and why it's an historic day
Bills going into affect today are:
1.15 - eliminating use of mecury in funeral industry + eliminating pending divorce next of kin situations
4.30 - Last reminants of drop to paper have been eliminated
6.08 - Missouri is totally hands free of mobile devices
Public service items not directly related to funeral industry:
8.05 - Starting 1/1/2024 social security benefits income no longer be taxable
8.52 - Sales tax will be paid at the dealership as soon as system is in place
9.56 - Log trucks can be bigger now, gross weight can increase about 10%
10.41 - CDL medical exam can be submitted via email and fax
11.14 - No longer allowed to tease livestock on the back of a truck. So don't poke the pig on a livestock truck! Also illegal to impede the progress of a livestock vehicle.
12.20 - Increased training for police officers and chiefs.
12.30 - Fund established for payment if employee has upscaled skill set
Topics:
0.00 - NPS Change and Update
8.30 - What about loss from receivorship in TX
12.00 - Meet the newest Otto
13.24 - Recap of NPS claim changes
Topics:
0.00 Greeting
0.20 - Obit Scam in the News Again - Inform your families!
5.40 - Insurance Version of this Scam - Inform your families!
7.10 - Email Address Scam
11.22 - Funeral Home Relevance - Ideas
14.30 - NFDA has a wonderful free resource on getting kids involved.
Sending the In The Loop with the NFDA link next week.
Today's podcast is the story of how a Kansas City, MO funeral director stopped his competitors from poaching business by inventing better phone service.
Topics:
0.00 Welcome
0.48 New legislation for all funeral homes
Add to your employee policy handbook.
3.30 Single biggest thing FH's are sued for is automobile accidents
Keep insurance current, coverage complete and drivers follow safe
driving habits, rules and laws.
11.11 NFDA.org/elections - Board of Director candidates and new bylaws.
15.08 Become a driver who always signals and stay safe!
Topics:
0.00 Greetings and stay cool
1.05 What happens if I get a violition?
7.41 Steps for disciplinary procedures
0.00 - Greeting and Overview
1.30 - Pre-Inspection Results
3.15 - Common OSHA Issue
4.04 - Funeral Home Name Violations
5.55 - Embalming Authorization Sheet Errors
7.55 - GPL Best Format for FTC
8.25 - Statement of Goods & Services Requirement
9.10 - Chemical Data Sheet Notebook Location
11.05 - License Location & the Elevator Option
16.30 - Extremely old DC correction issues
Topics:
0.00 Greeting
1.03 Governor Signed SB 116
3.07 What is SB 116 (read In The Loop for full details)
7.50 Pre-Inspection Inspection Offer
If you are interested in participating in a pre-audit through MFDEA, please contact Don Otto at 573-635-1661.
Note: end podcast after 11 minutes. Poor connection during last 5 minutes. That information will be shared in next weeks podcast.
Topics:
0.00 Intro
1.03 SE MO District Meeting Invite to All
2.00 Recent change in Social Security death benefit payments
Timing and Topics:
0.00 Remembering Todd Van Beck
3.00 Question of the Week re: statement of goods and services
12.10 Why is there no continuing education in Missouri?
Timing and Topics:
0.00 Office Closed during Convention Week
2.25 No affidavits thru MFDEA during convention week
3.40 Why does it take so long to pass a bill?
5.45 Parliamentary Procedures
Recorded live May 11, 2023, at the MO State Capitol.
Good news! The Hearing Bill #116, which covered fixing up the next of kin issues, has passed both the senate and the house.
More details to come at convention and in emails.
Timing and Topics:
0.00 Welcome
1.00 MoEVRS system upgrade begins
2.08 Retention of records - paper vs electronic
13.24 What to do with unclaimed cremated remains?
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Convention refund for late fee, extended early bird price
1.55 - Walk in issues, please register in advance
2.56 - Dr Jerry Teplitz bonus when you attend
3.44 - Free registration for MFT providers
5.46 - Can family transport deceased to grave site or out of state?
7.12 - Example of family handling burial themselves - what do you do?
Timing - Topics:
0.00 - National politics update, Advocacy Day in DC
1.05 - FTC stops "internet" funeral establishment
2.40 - Next of Kin bill passes to full senate
4.00 - Committe approves another State Board member
4.30 - Deadlines for convention and hotels close
4.55 - Arranger Training has
5.25 - DC correction w/ #9 needs a check for 15, 17, 18, 19
8.35 - Cemetery access rules and laws
Timing & Topics:
0.00 Tax Credit Potential
2.25 Convention Deadline
4.54 Who Owns Cremated Remains?
10:46 May Law Class has 2 seats left
0.00 Bill movements and updates
3.00 Govenor made 3 State Board appointments
4.30 Careful What You Google
7.53 Careful with AI searches
10.46 Convention & Registration Info
Timing and Topics:
0.00 - Hepatitis and Funeral Homes
8.25 - Law Class date change
9.30 - Convention Event Details
Timing and Talking Points:
0.0 Registration for Convention is Now Open
1.06 Legislative session update, spring break ending back in session Mon.
3.04 Free legal advice from Don
5.30 Members concerned about waste contract at funeral homes
18.18 ARTS test still happening, clearing up some possible confusion
Timing - Topic
0.00 - office internet update
1.18 - what to do with excess money on a preneed
3.01 - garble notice, we apologize
17.06 - what to do if funeral home is made beneficiary on life insurance policy
Timing - Topic0.00 - Brief update on legislative day1.05 - Smoking marijuana on funeral home property
3.37 - Employment practices regarding marijuana
0.19 - Come To FD Day Next Tuesday
1.31 - Next Of Kin Bill now in the House
1.57 - Contact your senator and rep to share your thoughts on ARTS exam
3.14 - I-9 form a must for new hires
Times - Topics
0.0 - Internet issues update
2.0 - SB #116 - Next of Kin bill passed the Senate
9.06 - Licensing bill update
9.54 - ARTS exam update
11.33 - FD license only requirements, plan A or B
16.17 - SB #32 Preneed Auditing Process bill update
22.57 - Funeral Day At The Capitol - Please Come!
0.04 - Follow Up on Legislative Bills and Upcoming Event
2:15 - Cardinals Game added to May Convention
3:32 - What To Do With A Body Part
9:23 - Details on Funeral Director Day at the Capitol
Timing and Topics:
1:00 - Watch for In The Loop email with full details and links
1:45 - House Bill 557 - Soon To Be Ex Spouse Issues
4:16 - House Bill 652 - Death Registration Process Modifications
5:41 - Senate Bill 32 - Audit Function to move to Dept. of Insurance
8:35 - Senate Bill 116 - Modifies Provisions Relating To Disposition
9:28 - Senate Bill 348 - Licensing Practices for Funeral Directors
12:21 - Senate Bill 421 - Proposed by Heath Dept. to remove language in
statue of Drop To Paper option
14:41 - No bill # yet - Deals with reciprocity
18:00 - Regulations for Pregnant and Nursing Employees
21:21 - FTC Funeral Rule, NFDA requesting comments on potential change
22:10 - FTC Proposing to Ban Non-Compete Clauses in FD Contracts
Timing for Topics:
0:30 - Legislative Session started this week
1:00 - Conference & ARTS exam update - eliminating ARTS exams in all states
4:00 - New: Category breakdown on missed questions on Sciences exam
5:30 - Conference working with schools on topics that will be on test
7:40 - FTC rules update - anticipating GPL to be required on FH websites
10:15 - St Louis Univ hospital no longer allowing pickup over weekend or holidays
MFDEA asking for member experiences to open discussion with SLU
Today's topics include:
- Document Retention Rules for Funeral Establishments
- Minimum Wage Increase, If It Affects You, Required Posters
- End of the year reminders
Happy New Year!
Don met with the state last week and shares the outcomes, what is required for a fetal disposition, plus how many time you can correct a DC.
Recorded at the SEMO Christmas Party.
Holiday greetings from President Greg Bird.
Shout out to Jon Cozean.
Don discusses Fetal Disposition Rights.
Don Otto attended a regular State Board meeting on 12/1/2022. Topics discussed were the ARTS exam changes and proposals submitted, other legislative proposals to be submitted, and scheduled displinary hearing issue. More on who is in charge of cremated remains and what if no one wants them?
Today's topic include:
- Appreciation and thanks to our members
- Preneed Registration Due by end of month
- Who Gets Cremated Remains?
Topics include Transit Permits for Missouri and Requirements For Shipping Body Out Of State.
Death certificate correction updates and changes and one more thing on the Funeral Rule.
Topics:
- State Board Has Been Assigned
- National Conv News: Formaldehyde Study published, Federal Trade Comm reviewing funeral rule, update on Brave Act
- DC correction if disposition changes
- Vital Records lost 2 emp expect delays, hiring, rec'd FTE increase
- Responding to a suicidal comment
- 2023 convention promotion
Today's topic covers the question: Can I Get Sued By A Dumpster Diver If They Get Injured In My Trash?
Topics include:
- State Board Meeting Notes
- MonkeyPox and Other Health Issues
- CDC revised Covid guidelines
- Opioid Exposure
- Purchasing NARCAN
Today's topics include:
- Upcoming Celebrant Training Survey
- NFDA Board Elections
- Covid Funeral Home Tax Credit
- Formaldehyde Study
- Baltimore NFDA International Convention & Expo
- State News - DC Processing, ARTS Exam, new website
Don shares news on key highlights regarding today's work force, ARTS exam and the advantages of a national conference regarding all states working together to make change. Plus emotional support animal rules and issues.
News and Updates
- Leadership Conference next week
- Update your passwords
- Watch for these email scams
- FEMA covid issues
- ARTS exam info
- New State Board members
Topics on this podcast include:
- Tri-State Convention Recap
- FD License Issues & Response
- Vital Records New Phone System Issues
- Returning Property to Family Members
- Senate Adjourns Early
State Convention is taking place May 1 - 4, 2022 and here are some updates. Hope to see you there!
Today's topic is Rental Casket Laws and Policy.
All licensed Funeral Directors of Member Funeral Homes are eligible to receive emails and videos from MFDEA. Join today!
The topics include:
- April Fools
- Results from the Legislative Funeral Director Day at the State Capitol
- Member Q&A: Final Disposition of a Fetus
Today's topics:
- Redistricting Bill Passed & Impact
- Wednesday Legislative Day - Vocalize Key Concerns Regarding Vital Records Staff
- Cyber Security at Member Funeral Homes
Topics:
- Wrong Ph # For Vital Records
- What To Do With Unclaimed Cremated Remains
- Legal Advice Guidelines
Topics: Same Sex and Common Law Marriages, the State of the Capitol, Office Closed 2/11, Valentine's Greeting
Topics: Covid Affects Office and Law Class (rescheduled), Covid Test Kits, Free N95, Drop To Paper Action and Update, Emergency Corrrection Appt. Requirements
Don Otto, MFDEA Executive Director, shares updates on Covid Masks, FD License and Exams timing, and GPL Surcharges.
Topic markers:
2:00 Covid Update
12:50 Omicron variant
14.45 Best practices for everyone to stay safe from Omicron
17:30 Appreciation and thank you's from MFDEA
Greetings and happy holiday season to all!
Notifications for claims from National Pre-arranged Services
Vital Records Backlog on Death Certificate Corrections
Crossing State Lines - Today's Topic
In this podcast Don Otto shares news updates that directly effects Missouri funeral directors.
Topics:
1. Ongoing dispute regarding inspections by the state
2. January 1, 2022 - no drop to paper death certificates?
3. A call to action for funeral directors.
4. DC corrections now taking 10 weeks
5. Endorsed FDLIC products and promotion
6. MFT Annuity Product info and promotion