The Cemetery and Funeral Bureau is making significant strides in modernizing its operations, as highlighted in the recent Advisory Committee meeting on October 11, 2023. Deputy Bureau Chief Sandra Patterson announced the Bureau's participation in the Department of Consumer Affairs' business modernization project, known as Bismod. This initiative aims to overhaul the Bureau's outdated information technology system, enhancing efficiency and service delivery for stakeholders.

The modernization efforts focus on implementing a new IT platform that will facilitate online submission of applications and reports, streamline processing times, and enable electronic payments. Over the past two years, the Bureau has actively contributed to the development of this new system, named CFB Connect, which went live in May 2023. This platform currently supports an online application for Funeral Directors, with plans for additional applications in the pipeline.

Looking ahead, the Bureau is set to release more online applications, including those for initial licensure and license maintenance, such as name and address changes. The next major rollout is expected in early 2024, with the introduction of an online application for original funeral establishment licenses.

These advancements are poised to significantly improve the efficiency of the Bureau's operations, ultimately benefiting both the industry and the public it serves. The ongoing modernization efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing service delivery and adapting to the needs of the community.