Elimination of BAO business licensing fee related to stillborn births went into effect April 1

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) has eliminated a business licensing fee charged in relation to stillborn births.

In tandem with the provincial government’s announcement in the fall removing the associated cost and simplifying the process of obtaining a certified copy of stillbirth registration, the BAO is eliminating licensing fees associated with death care services for a stillborn child.

The end of this licensing fee took effect on April 1, at the start of the authority’s fiscal year.

The BAO is funded by licensing fees charged to professionals and businesses of the death care sector in the province.

Jim Cassimatis, CEO/Registrar of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, said, “The provincial government’s recognition of the need to provide support to grieving mothers, fathers and families whose child is stillborn speaks to our humanity. Demonstrating respect for lost future family members in this initiative is an honourable gesture and commemoration that will help families in their grief. I know the professionals in the bereavement sector will welcome this additional option for grieving families.”

About the BAO

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) is a government delegated authority and not-for-profit corporation administering provisions of the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002 (FBCSA). Accountable to the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement and the government, the BAO is responsible for the protection of the public interest. The BAO regulates, ensures compliance with the law, provides resources and services to licensed:

• Funeral establishment operators, directors and preplanners;
• Cemetery, crematorium and alternative disposition operators;
• Transfer service operators; and
• Bereavement sector sales representatives across Ontario.

The BAO is wholly funded by licensee fees (not tax dollars).