Board executive director reports FY23-24 reserve of $1.098M, flags small deficit and possible fee review

The Tennessee Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers heard a fiscal update from Executive Director Mr. Gribble at its Jan. 14 meeting showing a reserve balance of $1,098,434 at the end of fiscal year 2023-24, but a net operating shortfall of $26,947 for the year.

Gribble said the board began the year with $1,125,184, reported net revenue of $736,166 and total expenditures of $763,113 for the July 1, 2023–June 30, 2024 fiscal year. The report showed payroll, travel and state professional services among the larger expense lines; travel includes reimbursements for board members and field inspectors. Gribble told the board that licensing revenue for the year was $743,695 and civil-penalty and complaint revenue totaled $17,641.

Nut graf: Although the board retains a seven-figure reserve, the executive director said the operating deficit merits further monitoring and possible action, including a review of fee levels and whether civil-penalty revenue collection or recovery of enforcement costs can be improved.

Board members asked about collection of assessed civil penalties and whether the board should raise civil-penalty levels to better cover enforcement costs. Legal staff described their follow-up process for consent orders and formal hearings and said most matters are settled via consent orders, with staff routinely monitoring outstanding payments. Gribble said staff will study whether fee changes are necessary and consult with the assistant commissioner's office; any fee increase would require a public rulemaking process and presentation to the government operations committee.

Ending: Gribble also noted an increase in closed establishments, which reduces recurring renewal revenue, and said staff will return with more detailed recommendations if a fee change is warranted. The board voted to accept the executive director's report.