WV SB557

Creates a new Genetic Counselors Practice Act requiring licensure by the West Virginia Board of Medicine effective July 1, 2026, with requirements including a master's degree from an accredited program and certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling or American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics

Establishes an Active Candidate Status (ACS) permit allowing genetic counseling graduates to practice under supervision while completing their certification examination, valid for up to one year with possible extension

Revises Board of Medicine membership requirements, specifying that physician, podiatrist, and physician assistant members must have at least five years of active clinical practice in West Virginia and reside in the state

Creates a formal administrative medicine license for physicians engaged in health care management, research, or policy work who do not practice clinical medicine or treat patients directly

Authorizes penalties including license revocation, fines up to $10,000 for disciplinary violations, and felony charges with imprisonment of one to two years or fines up to $2,000 for genetic counselors who falsely represent themselves as licensed physicians