Who plays a key role in protecting the public's interest regarding competition and costs in funeral services?

The role of protecting the public's interest regarding competition and costs in funeral services is typically designated to a regulatory body or department rather than an individual position like a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Specifically, in the context of funeral services, a board or a dedicated department is usually tasked with overseeing practices, ensuring compliance with regulations, and safeguarding consumer interests.

A department often has the authority to enforce laws related to funeral service practices, focusing on fair pricing and competition to prevent unethical practices. This aligns more closely with ensuring that public interest is served, as they have the resources and mandate to investigate complaints, monitor market practices, and implement regulations that protect consumers.

While the chairperson of a board might have significant influence within a regulatory framework, their role is typically more focused on governance rather than direct oversight of public interest issues. The CFO, while important in managing financial aspects, does not primarily concern themselves with competition and costs in the broader sense pertaining to public interest.

Thus, a board or a department would be the entities responsible for maintaining the integrity of the funeral service industry and ensuring that competition remains fair and costs are transparent for consumers.