AK HB28

Creates a Volunteer Advisory Board of Clinical Laboratory Science Professionals within the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development consisting of five members appointed by the governor, with four licensed professionals and one public member.

Establishes licensing requirements for clinical laboratory science professionals including clinical laboratory scientists, technicians, assistants, phlebotomy technicians, cytotechnologists, and histotechnologists through certification by department-approved credentialing agencies.

Defines scope of practice for each licensed category, with clinical laboratory scientists able to perform any test and supervise others, while technicians and assistants work under supervision with more limited authority.

Provides exemptions from licensing for persons licensed in other healthcare fields, federal employees, researchers, students under supervision, and those performing waived or point-of-care testing in approved facilities.

Establishes effective date of October 1, 2009, with a two-year transition period for currently employed professionals to obtain required certification.