During an inspection, why would a board inspector ask for a General Price List (GPL)?

A General Price List (GPL) is a crucial document that funeral homes must provide to comply with federal regulations, specifically the Funeral Rule enacted by the Federal Trade Commission. This rule requires funeral service providers to give consumers clear and detailed pricing information at the beginning of discussions about funeral arrangements. By asking for the GPL during an inspection, a board inspector is verifying that the funeral home adheres to these regulatory requirements.

Compliance with regulations includes ensuring that the GPL contains accurate information regarding the price of various services and merchandise provided by the funeral home. This check helps protect consumers by ensuring they are not misled or subjected to unfair pricing practices, thus reflecting the inspector's role in promoting ethical practices within the profession.

While factors such as financial stability, staff training, and customer service are important aspects of a funeral home's operation, they are not directly related to the specific regulatory requirement a General Price List addresses. This focus on compliance underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in the funeral industry, as mandated by law.