Georgia Cemetery Association

Code of Ethics

THE FUNDAMENTAL PURPOSE for which the Georgia Cemetery Association exists is to inspire constant effort toward the improvement of the Cemeteries of Georgia and their services to mankind. To foster and encourage the highest ethical standards in the operation, maintenance and management of all cemeteries in the State of Georgia.

WE BELIEVE we are duty bound to serve our fellowmen in such manner as to reflect credit upon our operations, and we charge ourselves with the responsibility of guiding and assisting individuals in their relations with us to the end that their interests will be served.

WE BELIEVE that since a reputation for integrity is a priceless asset, we are obligated to refrain from using any misrepresentations, exaggerations or deceptions in sales programs, advertising, public relations or otherwise. We believe, on the other hand, we ought and should use all proper means available to us to bring truthful enlightenment to the public.

WE BELIEVE that it is our duty to herewith discourage and condemn any practice in selling cemetery property for speculative or investment purposes, or upon the expressed or implied promise of resale for profit. We will further discourage and condemn any practices in selling, administration or maintenance of our cemeteries that are detrimental to public interest. They defy the fundamental concept of the sacred character of our service, and are an abuse of the privileges and prerogatives which we administer as a public trust.

WE BELIEVE that we ought to encourage every family to acquire a family burial estate, as well as other burial merchandise and services, far in advance of immediate or imminent need, so as to reduce the number of situations in which people may be compelled, by immediate need, to make a hasty purchase at a time when they are under emotional strain.

WE BELIEVE cemeteries, though separate in functions, must strive to maintain satisfactory relations with morticians, cremators, and other operators of related services. This should be accomplished through good services alone as we believe in the fundamental precepts of fair competition, dedicating ourselves to the preservation of those standards of fair dealing and honesty to the general public.

WE BELIEVE all cemeteries who promise to provide perpetual or endowed care must treat their care obligations to their lot owners as a sacred trust. Monies collected for care funds as required by law of the State of Georgia must be paid into separate irrevocable trust funds promptly and they must be administered judiciously and wisely.

WE BELIEVE that the purpose for which this Association exists cannot be passive in nature. We will encourage the interchange of methods and ideas to improve all cemeteries. We will encourage and actively participate in all legislation concerning cemeteries that will strengthen and improve our present standards for the protection of the people of the State of Georgia. We believe that all cemeteries must comply with all applicable Georgia cemetery laws.

WE OFFER this declaration of a code of ethical conduct and practice to all members of our industry and state it to be a basic code to which we as an Association and as individual members of the Cemetery Industry do subscribe - placing our faith and trust in the broad basic principals herein enunciated.