MO SB370

Removes "misconduct" and "fraud, misrepresentation or dishonesty" from subsection (5) incompetency grounds and creates a new subsection (6) that separately addresses misconduct, fraud, misrepresentation, dishonesty, unethical conduct, and unprofessional conduct with specific examples including overcharging patients, performing unnecessary services, and sexual misconduct.

Adds eight new grounds for discipline including knowingly making false statements for Medicare/Medicaid payment, failure to guard against contagious diseases or maintain sanitary conditions, pattern of controlled substance use without valid prescription, habitual intoxication or alcohol dependence, and failure to comply with treatment or aftercare programs.

Establishes an emergency suspension or restriction procedure allowing the board to request expedited hearings when a nurse poses a clear and present danger, with specific grounds including sexual conduct with patients, possession or unauthorized use of controlled substances, adjudication as incapacitated, and habitual intoxication.

Requires the administrative hearing commission to review emergency suspension requests within five business days and hold full hearings within 45 days (extended to 120 days if continuances are granted), with findings determining whether the emergency suspension remains in effect pending discipline.

Adds a new procedure allowing the board to initiate discipline hearings based on certified court records showing criminal convictions, final disciplinary action from other jurisdictions, or court findings of incapacity, with at least ten days' notice required.