April 7, 2020

The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo

Governor of New York State

New York State Capitol Building

Albany, NY 12224

RE: Urgent Request for License Reciprocity for Funeral Directors

Dear Governor Cuomo:

We deeply admire the way you are shepherding the state of New York through the COVID-19 crisis. You have been a true leader during this crisis, continually advocating for the citizens in your state.

Medical examiners and funeral homes in NYC are overwhelmed. Families are needlessly suffering because they can't bury their dead. The National Funeral Directors Association and funeral service professionals around the country want to help!

We have hundreds of funeral directors who have volunteered to deploy to New York City to help ensure the dead are buried with dignity. No one wants their loved one to be left on a refrigerated truck waiting to be buried.

These volunteers are experienced professionals who stand ready to help the New York City in its time of need, but they need you to grant license reciprocity so they can work in your state.

Please sign an executive order granting license reciprocity for funeral directors and embalmers today. A proposal is on your desk.

We are ready and waiting to help!

Sincerely,

R. Bryant Hightower, Jr., CFSP                                    

President

Christine Pepper

CEO