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Bill

A 183

Provides for the licensing of genetic counselors; creates the state board for genetic counseling

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Benedetto and 16 co-sponsors

Establish a state licensure framework and a State Board for Genetic Counseling to regulate the practice in New York.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · A 183

Summary of Assembly Bill A 183 (2025)

Overview

  • Purpose: The bill would establish a licensure framework for genetic counselors and create a New York State Board for Genetic Counseling to regulate the profession.
  • Status: Referred to the Higher Education Committee.
  • Introduction date: January 8, 2025.
  • Related activity: The bill has multiple related or companion bills listed from prior sessions and a companion in the Senate (S 3029).

Legislative History and Process

  • Legislative actions recorded on the same date: Referred to Higher Education (listed twice).
  • This placement suggests the bill’s focus on professional standards, education, and regulatory oversight for genetic counseling.
  • Next steps (typical path): If advanced, the bill would proceed through committee reviews, potential amendments, and floor votes in the Assembly; then, if passed, move to the Senate for consideration.

Primary and Co-sponsors

  • Primary sponsor: Linda Rosenthal.
  • Cosponsors include: MaryJane Shimsky, Nily Rozic, Edward Ra, Rebecca Seawright, Catalina Cruz, Phara Souffrant Forrest, Phil Steck, David McDonough, Michael Benedetto, Steven Raga, Al Taylor, John K. Mikulin, David Weprin, Karen McMahon, Amy Paulin, Maritza Davila, and others.
  • Note: A broad slate of sponsors from a range of districts, indicating cross-member interest in professional licensure and/or education policy related to genetic counseling.

Key Provisions (as stated)

  • Licensing of genetic counselors: The bill would authorize and regulate the practice of genetic counseling through a state licensure framework.
  • Creation of the state board: Establishment of the State Board for Genetic Counseling to oversee licensure, professional standards, and related regulatory functions.
  • Details on licensure requirements, scope of practice, disciplinary processes, and renewal cycles are not provided in the summary you supplied. The actual bill text would specify educational requirements, examinations (if any), continuing education, fees, and enforcement mechanisms.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Genetic counselors practicing in New York State would be subject to licensure and board regulation.
  • Employers and healthcare facilities employing genetic counselors would need to ensure staff compliance with licensure and regulatory requirements.
  • Educational institutions offering genetic counseling programs may be involved in meeting licensure prerequisites (e.g., accreditation or coursework standards) as defined by the board.

Related and Companion Legislation

  • Related Assembly bills from prior sessions: A 2275, A 5281, A 3350, A 5641, A 5766, A 3556, A 278, A 2151, A 49.
  • Companion Senate bill: S 3029 (listed as companion).
  • These related measures indicate ongoing legislative interest in establishing licensure and regulatory oversight for genetic counseling across sessions.

Potential Impact and Considerations

  • Public protection: A licensure system and regulatory board could enhance consumer protection by establishing standards of practice, ethics, and accountability.
  • Professional standards: The board could set education, experience, and continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.
  • Implementation: The bill would require funding, administrative capacity, and rulemaking to operationalize licensure, exams (if included), and disciplinary procedures.

Next Steps for Readers

  • Monitor for committee reports and potential amendments in Higher Education.
  • Review the bill text for specific licensure criteria, board structure, disciplinary authority, fee schedules, and renewal timelines.
  • Watch for updates on related bills (A 2275, A 5281, etc., and S 3029) to understand developments and potential convergence of provisions.

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

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