After studying numerous GPLs I have come to the conclusion they are not useful for the purpose intended. Many funeral homes will adjust prices arbitrarily if the family indicates they may shop at an alternative supplier. In that case their GPL meant nothing as a shopping tool unless the family so indicates. To arbitrarily adjust prices because of a well educated consumer is insulting to that consumer and unfair to every other consumer that was unaware that a mention of the intention to shop would get a significant discount. I believe if a funeral home publishes a GPL price it should be the price. Then consumers can shop via telephone and be assured the information being given by the funeral home and used by the consumer to make decisions is valid. I believe it should be a violation to deviate from the GPL price arbitrarily.

I do not believe the Rule should be expanded to include monument dealers and casket sellers. They do not have the ability to provide goods and services and therefore the intent of the Rule does not apply. I do believe cemeteries should be included in the Rule because they do have the ability to provide goods and services. It also seems to make no sense to have a "combo" operation with one half under the Rule and one half not. I believe the Rule should redefine "funeral provider" to include cemetery operations whether stand alone or combination operations.

I know the powerful funeral industry will lobby for what it wants to keep it's "monopoly" in place. I believe what I have suggested, however, is best for the consumer!

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