{Februay 9, 2006} VICTORIA – The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority (BPCPA) is announcing a 30 day consultation period on two new charges for funeral provider licensees as follows:

• A $200 charge for breaching a condition of the funeral provider licence by failing to pay the BPCPA administration fee on or before the due date established for such payment by agreement between the Authority and the funeral provider and,
• A $250 charge for the priority inspection of a new facility prior to licensing

It is proposed that the fees would be effective June 15, 2006.

The BPCPA operates on a full cost recovery model. The Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority Act allows the Authority to fund its operating costs from fees or charges for its performance of any duty. Under the Fee Setting Criteria Regulation, the Authority is required to consult with the affected industry and other interested parties before setting fees, charges or other amounts. The regulation also requires the Authority to give at least 90 days’ notice before the fees have effect.

Consultation on the proposed fee was undertaken with the Cremation, Interment and Funeral Services Advisory Group on January 29, 2006 and the group supported the proposal. The group is comprised of key industry and consumer representatives.

The news release and the proposed changes to the fee schedule will be posted for 30 days on the BPCPA website to obtain input from all interested parties.  Please provide your input to the BPCPA (email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) by Friday, March 10, 2006.  If you would like additional information, please contact the BPCPA at its BC toll free number 1 888 564-9963 or visit the BPCPA website at www.bpcpa.ca.