Loading chat...

AK HB362

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/23/2026

Primary Sponsor

Labor & Commerce

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

34th Legislature

AI Summary

  • Creates a new licensure requirement for respiratory care practitioners in Alaska under AS 08.90, effective January 1, 2027
  • Requires applicants to complete an accredited respiratory care program, pass a registered respiratory therapist examination, and complete 20 credit hours of continuing education for license renewal
  • Defines scope of practice to include ventilatory support, oxygen therapy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, telehealth services, and management of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation units under supervision of a qualified medical director
  • Adds respiratory care practitioners to existing statutes covering medical malpractice liability, civil immunity for free health care services, and protection against unfair discrimination in group health insurance
  • Provides one-year transition period allowing practitioners employed before the effective date to continue working without a license while applying for credentials

Legislative Description

Respiratory Care License

Physicians

Last Action

REFERRED TO FINANCE

3/11/2026

Committee Referrals

Finance3/11/2026
Labor & Commerce2/23/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available