AR HB1636

Amends Arkansas Code § 17-95-203(7) to clarify that students, interns, residents, and fellows in approved hospital training programs are exempt from licensure requirements under the Arkansas Medical Practices Act.

Adds explicit mention of the American Osteopathic Association and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education as approval bodies for residency and fellowship programs that qualify for the licensure exemption.

Declares an emergency clause, finding an immediate need to add osteopathic residency positions within Arkansas before July 1, 2015.

States the emergency is necessary to address projected healthcare workforce shortages and ensure sufficient, well-trained medical professionals are available to Arkansas citizens.

Becomes effective immediately upon Governor approval, expiration of the Governor's veto period, or veto override by the legislature.