ID H0490

Requires fingerprint-based criminal history background checks for applicants seeking professional licenses through the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, including nurses, pharmacists, physicians, physician assistants, real estate agents, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, counselors, and driving instructors.

Creates new section 67-9411A authorizing the division administrator to require applicants to submit fingerprints and personal information for criminal background checks through Idaho State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation databases.

Establishes that criminal background reports shall be used only for licensing decisions and handled according to requirements imposed by Idaho State Police and FBI, with further dissemination prohibited.

Applies to original licensure applications and license reinstatement applications, with applicants responsible for submitting fingerprints and paying associated processing fees.

Effective date is July 1, 2024, with an emergency clause declared, and includes severability provisions.