Meeting of the Board of Regents | January 2010

Summary

Issue for Discussion

Update provided on pending legislative proposals which could impact the professions.

Reason(s) for Consideration

For information and discussion.

Proposed Handling

Presentation to the Professional Practice Committee.

Background Information

The Office of the Professions annually reviews and provides comment on approximately 400 bills proposed by the Legislature.  Many of these proposals would have significant impact on the licensed professions, including changes in scope of practice, requirements for continuing education, or enhancements in consumer protection.  Others would create new professions such as geologists, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and polysomnographic technicians.

Each bill is reviewed and evaluated by senior managers within the Office, often drawing on the assistance and expertise of State Board members.  Recommended positions (Support, No Objection, Oppose or Technical Amendments Needed) are reviewed and approved by the Deputy Commissioner and the Department’s Government Relations Office.  Once approved, they are shared with the appropriate committees in the Legislature, as well as with bill sponsors.  Ultimately, they are used as the basis to formulate the Department’s position on 10-day bills that pass both houses of the Legislature and are sent to the Governor for action.  Throughout the process, the office works closely with bill sponsors to recommend amendments or provide background information. 

2010 is the second year of the two-year legislative cycle.  Pending bills which were not signed into law in 2009 are still ‘live’ and before the Legislature for action.  The Office of the Professions has been involved in discussions/negotiations surrounding many of these bills and has continued advocacy for Departmental priorities that would create registration processes to address the corporate practice prohibitions faced by social work/mental health providers and by preschool special education and early intervention providers.

Timetable for Implementation

The 2010 Legislative Session begins January 6, 2010.