As part of a negotiated consent decree, the State of Florida and the Federal Trade Commission sought to enjoin the proposed merger between Services Corp. International (SCI) and Equity Corp. International (ECI), alleging that the merger would substantially impair competition among funeral home or cemetery establishments in 14 local markets. In order to consummate the merger, SCI agreed to divest a sufficient number of funeral services and cemeteries to Carriage Services, Inc. in the 14 local markets to maintain a viable competitive marketplace. Additionally, SCI was enjoined from acquiring funeral homes or cemeteries in any of the 14 markets for 10 years without giving the FTC and the appropriate Attorney’s General thirty days prior notice.