AZ HB2324

Establishes a voluntary certification program for community health workers administered by the Arizona Department of Health Services, with certificates valid for two years and renewable biennially.

Defines "certified community health worker" as a nonmedical health worker who serves as a liaison between health providers and communities to improve access to services and medical/behavioral health outcomes.

Director must establish by rule the scope of practice, core competencies, minimum education and training requirements, and standards for denial, suspension, or revocation of certificates.

Waives minimum training and education requirements for applicants with at least 960 hours of paid or volunteer community health worker experience in the previous three years at licensed health care facilities or providers.

Creates a nine-member Community Health Workers Advisory Council, majority composed of community health workers, to recommend certification standards and requirements (council repeals December 31, 2022).

Prohibits state and local governments from providing contractual preference to certified community health workers or their employers.