SF37 Summary: Genetic Counselor Licensing

• Establishes licensure requirements for genetic counselors in Minnesota under new chapter 147F, administered by the Board of Medical Practice.

• Applicants must graduate from an ACGC-accredited program and hold current certification from the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) or American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG).

• Licensed genetic counselors may provide nine specific services including obtaining medical histories, determining inheritance risk, ordering genetic tests, and providing client-centered counseling on genetic conditions.

• Restricts use of genetic counselor titles to licensed individuals; prohibits unlicensed practice except for federal employees, students/interns under supervision, and out-of-state consultants practicing up to 30 days per year.

• Establishes fees of $200 for application, $150 for initial licensure and annual renewal, requires 25 hours of continuing education every two years, and creates a five-member advisory council to advise the Board.

• Effective July 1, 2017.