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HB 346

Local government; prohibit municipalities and counties from using public, educational, and governmental programming (PEG) channels for political purposes

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Barton and 3 co-sponsors

House Bill 346 allows retired physicians to volunteer without a 100-hour service requirement, boosting healthcare access at free clinics for those in need.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · HB 346

Summary of House Bill 346

Bill Number: HB 346
Title: Physicians; Retired Senior Volunteer Program administered by Medical Examiners Board, qualifications to participate revised
Status: Enacted
Introduced: February 27, 2025
Effective Date: October 1, 2025
Sponsor: Representative Paul W. Lee
Committee: Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 346 aims to amend the existing qualifications for participation in the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) administered by the State Board of Medical Examiners. The primary intent of the bill is to encourage retired physicians to provide volunteer medical services without the constraint of a minimum service hour requirement.

Key Provisions

  • Removal of Hour Requirement: The bill eliminates the previous requirement that retired physicians must perform a minimum of 100 hours of volunteer service annually to qualify for the RSVP.

  • Certification Process: The State Board of Medical Examiners retains the authority to issue certificates of qualification to retired physicians who meet specific criteria, including:

    • Having a full and unrestricted medical license in Alabama or another state.
    • Certifying that they are fully retired from active practice.
    • Being in good health and not undergoing treatment that would impair their ability to practice safely.
    • Intending to limit their practice to outpatient services at approved free medical clinics or nonprofit organizations.

  • No Cost for Certification: Physicians who qualify under this program will receive their certificates at no cost.

  • Continuing Education: Physicians must comply with continuing medical education requirements as specified by the State Board of Medical Examiners.

Impact

  • Financial Implications: The enactment of HB 346 is projected to decrease annual receipts to the State Board of Medical Examiners by approximately $300 for each physician who opts for certification under the RSVP instead of maintaining full licensure.

  • Target Population: The bill primarily affects retired physicians who wish to volunteer their services in free medical clinics, thereby potentially increasing the availability of medical care for individuals unable to pay.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 27, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Health.
  • March 5, 2025: Reported out of committee and placed on the calendar for a second reading.
  • March 19, 2025: Passed in the House and sent to the Senate for consideration.
  • May 6, 2025: Enrolled and delivered to the Governor for signature.
  • May 14, 2025: Enacted into law.

Conclusion

House Bill 346 represents a significant change in the qualifications for retired physicians wishing to volunteer their services, aiming to enhance healthcare access for underserved populations while reducing barriers to participation in the RSVP. The removal of the 100-hour service requirement is expected to encourage more retired physicians to engage in volunteer work, thereby benefiting both the medical community and patients in need.

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

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