MD SB951

Creates a new licensing system for anesthesiologist assistants (AAs) under the State Board of Physicians, requiring graduation from an accredited program, passing a national certification exam, and completing a criminal history records check

Anesthesiologist assistants must practice under supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist with a written supervision agreement maintained on-site; one anesthesiologist may supervise no more than four AAs at a time unless regulations permit otherwise

Licenses are valid for up to 3 years; temporary licenses (up to 12 months) are available for graduates awaiting their certification exam; expedited licensure is available for those already licensed in good standing in other jurisdictions

Authorized duties include pre/post-anesthesia evaluations, airway interventions, establishing IV lines, administering anesthetics and medications, regional anesthesia placement, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation—but AAs cannot independently prescribe or practice without anesthesiologist supervision

The Board must adopt implementing regulations by October 1, 2027; the Act takes effect October 1, 2026