Which entity is responsible for issuing funeral licenses in Tennessee?

The Tennessee Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers is the authority responsible for issuing funeral licenses in Tennessee. This board operates under the broader regulatory framework established by the Tennessee Department of Health, but it specifically handles the licensing and regulation of funeral directors and embalmers. This includes overseeing the educational requirements, examinations, and ongoing compliance with state regulations to ensure that funeral service professionals meet the necessary standards of practice. The board plays a crucial role in maintaining public health and safety related to funeral services and ensuring that practitioners adhere to the ethical and professional standards expected in the industry.

The Department of Health supports the overall health-related regulations but does not directly issue funeral licenses. The State Legislature formulates the laws governing the profession, while the Tennessee Funeral Association serves as a trade organization that advocates for the interests of its members but does not have the authority to issue licenses. Therefore, the Tennessee Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers is the correct answer as they are the governing body tasked with this responsibility.