SB24-167 Summary

• Authorizes the Department of Public Health and Environment to require assisted living residence operators to ensure direct-care workers complete tuberculosis tests and respiratory mask fit testing.

• Establishes "portable tests" (tuberculosis tests and fit tests) and "portable training" (hand hygiene, first aid, resident rights, person-centered care, fall prevention, lift assistance, and food safety) that workers can transfer between facilities with certification of completion.

• Requires training providers to issue certificates of completion documenting the topic, date, provider, and competency verification; new employers may accept these certificates or require additional testing or competency evaluations.

• Allows tuberculosis test results to be accepted for new employment if presented within two years of testing; permits the department to require additional testing through administrative action, notice, rule, or state law.

• Appropriates $30,152 to the Department of Public Health and Environment for 0.3 FTE to implement the act, effective January 1, 2025, subject to voter approval if a referendum petition is filed.