NC H697

Establishes the Genetic Counselors Licensure Board, a five-member body with appointments by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President Pro Tempore, to regulate genetic counseling practice in North Carolina

Requires licensure for anyone practicing as a genetic counselor, with qualifications including ABGC certification, criminal background check, and minimum age of 18; temporary licenses available for those with Active Candidate Status

Defines scope of practice to include evaluating family medical histories for genetic risk, ordering and interpreting genetic tests, and providing counseling, but excludes diagnosis and treatment, which must be referred back to physicians

Sets maximum fees of $250 for initial/reciprocal license applications, $200 for biennial renewal, and $100 for temporary licenses; requires 30 hours of continuing education per renewal period

Practicing without a license constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor, while falsely representing oneself as licensed or practicing as an unlicensed out-of-state practitioner is a Class I felony; main provisions effective October 1, 2026