IL SB2940

Requires surgical technologists hired by Illinois health care facilities on or after January 1, 2028 to complete a nationally accredited program and obtain certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting or National Center for Competency Testing within 18 months of hire.

Exempts critical access hospitals, rural emergency hospitals, and facilities located more than 60 miles from an accredited surgical technology program in Illinois.

Facilities in federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas or Medically Underserved Areas are exempt from the requirements but must give hiring preference to certified surgical technologists.

Allows surgical technologists who practiced at licensed hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers before January 1, 2028, or who completed military or U.S. Public Health Service training programs, to continue working without meeting the new certification requirements.

Does not restrict physicians, physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, or other licensed professionals from performing surgery-related tasks within their scope of practice.