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SB 2494

RESPIRATORY CARE PRACTICE ACT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Suzy Glowiak Hilton and 3 co-sponsors

Illinois modernizes respiratory therapist licensure and expands clinical scope of practice under updated regulatory standards effective August-January 2026.

Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0152
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Bill Summary · SB 2494

Legislative bill overview

SB 2494 modernizes Illinois's Respiratory Care Practice Act by updating licensure requirements, scope of practice, and regulatory oversight for respiratory care professionals. The bill establishes new standards for education, certification, and clinical responsibilities while creating a framework for expanded practice roles under physician supervision.

Why is this important

Respiratory therapists are critical healthcare workers managing ventilators, oxygen therapy, and airway management in hospitals and emergency settings. Updating their regulatory framework ensures licensure standards match current educational practices and allows the profession to respond to evolving healthcare demands, particularly relevant given post-pandemic staffing challenges in respiratory care.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice expansion: Broadening respiratory therapist authority may face pushback from physicians' groups concerned about clinical decision-making boundaries and liability
  • Licensure transition requirements: Existing practitioners may face compliance challenges if grandfathering provisions are limited, potentially creating workforce disruptions
  • Regulatory burden: New certification and education requirements could increase costs for practitioners and programs, affecting workforce pipeline and accessibility to the profession

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

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