HB17-1121 Summary

• Requires fingerprint-based criminal history record checks for applicants and licensees in multiple health professions including podiatrists, dentists, dental hygienists, physicians, physician assistants, nurses, certified nurse aides, optometrists, and veterinarians, effective July 1, 2018.

• Eliminates the nurse alternative to discipline program and establishes confidential agreements allowing nurses with physical or mental conditions to limit their practice while maintaining licensure without formal discipline.

• Requires employers of certified nurse aides to report terminations and resignations within 30 days, with fines of $500 to $5,000 for non-compliance.

• Repeals the existing Nurse Licensure Compact and enacts the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multistate nursing licensure and establishing an Interstate Commission of Nurse Licensure Compact Administrators.

• Appropriates $576,126 to the Department of Public Safety and $50,000 each to the Department of Regulatory Agencies and Governor's Office for implementation of criminal history checks and information technology services.