WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SSB 1121

A bill for an act creating an emeritus license to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SSB 1121 creates an emeritus license for retired physicians, allowing them to supervise and train residents without ongoing education, fostering mentorship in medicine.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 469.
#fees #health-relatedprofessions #medicalcare #medicine #osteopathicmedicine #professionallicensure #surgery
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SSB 1121

Summary of SSB 1121 - Emeritus License for Medical Practice

Purpose and Intent

SSB 1121 aims to establish an emeritus license for individuals who have previously practiced medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery. This license is designed to allow retired physicians to maintain a connection to the medical field, particularly in roles that involve supervising and training resident physicians, without the burden of ongoing education requirements.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  • Scope of Practice: Holders of the emeritus license will retain the same scope of practice they had while actively licensed as physicians or osteopathic physicians.

  • Continuing Education: The emeritus license does not require holders to complete continuing education credits, which is a common requirement for active medical licenses.

  • License Duration: The emeritus license is valid for three years and can be renewed once.

  • Fees: The application and renewal fees for the emeritus license will be set at 50% of the standard fees for active medical or osteopathic licenses.

  • Rule Adoption: The bill mandates that the relevant board adopt rules for implementation, including a definition of what it means to be "primarily engaged in the practice of supervising and training resident physicians."

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:

  • Retired Physicians: Those who wish to remain involved in the medical community without the full responsibilities of active practice.

  • Medical Boards: The boards responsible for licensing and regulation will need to implement new rules and processes for the emeritus license.

  • Resident Physicians: They may benefit from the mentorship and supervision of experienced physicians holding the emeritus license.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: February 13, 2025, and referred to the Health and Human Services Committee.
  • Subcommittee Meeting: February 19, 2025, with a recommendation for passage on February 20, 2025.
  • Committee Report: The bill was approved and renumbered as SF 469 on February 26, 2025.

Conclusion

SSB 1121 represents a significant step in recognizing the value of retired physicians in the medical education system. By creating an emeritus license, the bill facilitates the continued involvement of experienced practitioners in training the next generation of medical professionals while easing the regulatory burdens associated with active practice.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.