State representatives pass new funeral home regulations following Heinz investigation

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — State representatives passed a plan Tuesday to create new funeral home regulations in response to the mishandling of human remains at the Heinz Funeral Home in Carlinville.

The legislation could create an identification system for all human remains to ensure funeral homes never mishandle remains again.

Under this proposal, anyone intentionally violating preparation room procedures and rules could face a Class 4 felony. People engaging in funeral directing or embalming without a license would be charged with a Class A misdemeanor.

"The Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation would be required to inspect the premises within 10 business days of receiving the complaint," said Rep. Mary Gill (D-Chicago). "Stronger chain of custody requirements, timely inspections and real consequences can help to restore trust in this important field."

The measure passed unanimously out of the House Tuesday. Senate Bill 2643 now moves back to the Senate on concurrence due to a technical amendment.

Family members impacted by the mishandling of remains at the Heinz Funeral Home have advocated for this change alongside Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) and Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon.