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SF 210

A bill for an act relating to the licensing, regulation, and discipline of licensed health professionals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Janet Petersen

SF 210 strengthens health professional licensing by banning applicants with sexual misconduct for 10 years, ensuring patient safety and accountability through stricter regulations.

Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Schultz, and Townsend.
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Bill Summary · SF 210

Summary of SF 210: Licensing, Regulation, and Discipline of Licensed Health Professionals

Bill Number: SF 210
Introduced On: February 4, 2025
Current Status: Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Schultz, and Townsend
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Health, Health-Related Professions, Licensing, Sexual Misconduct, Reporting Requirements

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 210 is to enhance the licensing and regulatory framework for health professionals, particularly concerning issues of sexual misconduct. The bill aims to protect patients and the public by establishing stricter guidelines for the issuance and maintenance of professional licenses in the health sector.

Key Provisions

  1. Licensing Restrictions for Applicants:

    • Health profession licensing boards are prohibited from issuing licenses to applicants with a founded case of sexual misconduct unless:
      • At least 10 years have passed since the misconduct.
      • The applicant has completed a problematic sexualized behavior treatment program.

  2. Disciplinary Actions for Current Licensees:

    • If a current licensee is found to have committed sexual misconduct, their license must be suspended until:
      • 10 years have elapsed since the misconduct.
      • The licensee has completed a problematic sexualized behavior treatment program.

  3. Mandatory Reporting Duties:

    • Licensees are required to report any known violations of laws or rules regarding sexual misconduct or substance use within five days of becoming aware of such violations.

  4. Continuing Education Requirements:

    • Each licensing board must mandate that licensees complete at least one hour of continuing education on their duty to report violations during each licensure renewal cycle.

  5. Employer Reporting Obligations:

    • Employers of licensed health professionals must submit information regarding all disciplinary actions taken against their employees to the relevant licensing board.

  6. Complaint Handling Procedures:

    • Upon receiving a complaint against a licensee, boards must provide a copy of the complaint to:
      • The licensee’s employer.
      • Insurance carriers that billed for the licensee’s services in the past year.
      • The licensee’s medical malpractice insurance company (if applicable), provided they have the complainant's written permission.

  7. Supervision During Investigations:

    • For complaints of sexual misconduct, the board shall require the licensee to practice under supervision until the investigation concludes.
    • For complaints of sexual assault, the board shall suspend the license immediately.

Impact

The bill is designed to strengthen the accountability of health professionals and enhance patient safety by ensuring that those with a history of sexual misconduct are not able to practice without appropriate oversight and rehabilitation. It affects:
- Health Professionals: Applicants and current licensees will face stricter scrutiny and requirements.
- Employers: They will have additional reporting responsibilities regarding their employees' disciplinary actions.
- Patients and the Public: Increased protections and transparency regarding the conduct of licensed health professionals.

Procedural Aspects

  • Subcommittee Review: The bill is currently under review by a subcommittee consisting of members Rozenboom, Schultz, and Townsend as of February 5, 2025.
  • Next Steps: Further legislative actions will determine the bill's progression through the legislative process.

This summary provides an overview of SF 210, highlighting its intent to regulate health professionals more stringently in relation to sexual misconduct and ensuring public safety through enhanced reporting and disciplinary measures.

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

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