MS SB2663

Requires all applicants for registered nurse (RN) licensure to undergo fingerprint-based criminal history checks through Mississippi and FBI databases before licensure approval.

Requires all applicants for licensed practical nurse (LPN) licensure to undergo the same fingerprint-based criminal history checks as RN applicants.

Authorizes the Board of Nursing to require existing licensees to undergo fingerprint-based criminal history checks upon reasonable suspicion of violation of statutory grounds for denial of licensure or commission of specified offenses.

Designates criminal history records obtained by the board as confidential and nonpublic information exempt from the Mississippi Public Records Act, usable only by board members, officers, investigators, and attorneys in licensure evaluations.

Requires applicants to pay all costs incurred by the board for requesting and obtaining state and national criminal history records information.