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Bill

H 118

GENETIC COUNSELORS – Repeals existing law relating to genetic counselors.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 118 repeals licensing for genetic counselors in Idaho, allowing them to practice without state oversight, impacting counselors and healthcare facilities.

Reported Printed and Referred to Health & Welfare
#health #healthcarefacilities #healthcareprofessionsandproviders #licensesandpermits #medical #occupationalandprofessionallicenses
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Bill Summary · H 118

Summary of House Bill 118 (H 118)

Overview

House Bill 118, introduced on February 4, 2025, aims to repeal existing laws governing genetic counselors in the state of Idaho. The bill has been reported, printed, and referred to the Health & Welfare Committee for further consideration.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of H 118 is to delicense genetic counselors by repealing Chapter 56 of Title 54 of the Idaho Code. This legislative action is designed to eliminate the regulatory framework that currently governs the practice of genetic counseling in the state.

Key Provisions

  • Repeal of Licensing Requirements: The bill proposes the complete repeal of the existing chapter that regulates genetic counselors, effectively removing the requirement for these professionals to obtain a state license.
  • Emergency Declaration: The bill includes a provision declaring an emergency, which allows it to take effect immediately on July 1, 2025, upon passage.

Fiscal Impact

According to the fiscal note attached to the bill:
- There will be a decrease in licensing fees collected by the respective board, as the licensing requirement will be eliminated.
- Correspondingly, there will be a decrease in board expenses related to the oversight of genetic counselors.
- The overall fiscal impact is expected to be nominal, indicating that the financial implications of this repeal are minimal.

Affected Parties

  • Genetic Counselors: The repeal will directly affect genetic counselors in Idaho, as they will no longer need to hold a state license to practice.
  • Health Care Facilities: Facilities that employ genetic counselors may need to adjust their hiring practices and regulatory compliance measures in light of the repeal.
  • State Regulatory Board: The board responsible for overseeing genetic counselors will see a reduction in its regulatory responsibilities and associated revenues.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 4, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Joint Rules Committee for printing.
  • February 5, 2025: Bill reported, printed, and referred to the Health & Welfare Committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 118 represents a significant shift in the regulation of genetic counseling in Idaho, moving towards a less regulated environment for this profession. Stakeholders, including genetic counselors and health care facilities, should prepare for the implications of this legislative change as it progresses through the legislative process.

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

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