2023 Legislative Updates
2023 Legislative Reports
End of Session Update 4/11/2023
Over half of the legislature was new this session, but that didn’t stop the freshman from being heavily involved with creating and passing legislation. The session saw a lot of debate over school choice, improper materials in libraries, property tax relief, drag shows and transgender issues, abortion, and of course Medicaid costs.
There was a required five-year review of Medicaid expansion that was approved by voters in 2018. A few legislators introduced legislation to repeal the expansion program, but ultimately most legislators believed that to be too much of a risk so it didn’t advance. In the end, the original Medicaid appropriation didn’t pass the House, so JFAC had to go back and reduce the funding intended for the expansion program to get a passing vote in the House. The Senate then passed the reduced appropriation by only one vote.
While there were only a few provider rate increases, thankfully there were no provider reductions for the regular programs of Medicaid. However, the legislators did request that more cost containment measures be evaluated. HCR 9 was passed to begin that process with a Medicaid manage care legislative study. This information will be reported to them next session.
Finally, as session closed, Medicaid had the long-awaited dental codes finished and said they would be effective May 1. The passed legislation below may be of interest to IASCA members.
PASSED LEGISLATION:
HB 3 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS’ ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
HB 83 CONRAD VISA WAIVER PROGRAM
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
HB 192 CHANGE IN PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND ELIGIBILITY
HB 206 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW OF ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
HB 213 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
HB 223 UPDATE TO MEDICAL CONSENT AND NATURAL DEATH ACT
HB 369 MEDICAID BUDGET APPROPRIATION
Legislative Update 3/31/2023
- The Legislature entered the twelve week of the session. The focus of this week was passing appropriation bills and revisiting property tax relief as Governor Little vetoed HB 292 which is the legislature’s hallmark bill on property tax. The Governor vetoed the bill stating it contained budgetary and policy items not related to property tax relief and suggested extracting language specific to property taxes. The bill was sent back to the legislature, amended to address the Governor’s concerns and it passed both houses. Read the Governor’s statement on HB 292 here.
- There were a lot of medical related pieces of legislation this session, but nothing with a direct correlation to surgery centers, other than the legislators gave less funding to cover Medicaid expansion costs. They believe Medicaid was not making enough financial reductions, since the federal government will now allow them to take noneligible people off the Medicaid roster. During Covid that was not allowed. If the funding is not enough to cover Medicaid costs, Medicaid will have to ask for supplemental funding next session to pay providers.
- The Legislators are finished for the week but will wait another week to sine die in case the Governor vetoes any bills that they might want the opportunity to override.
NEW BILLS
HB 369 MEDICAID BUDGET APPROPRIATION
Status – Passed House 40-30-0. Passed Senate 18-17-0. Transferred to Governor’s Office
SB 1167 IDAHO LAUNCH GRANT PROGRAM AMENDMENT – adds requirements for use of funds for Governor Little’s “Idaho Launch” scholarship program.
Status – Passed Senate 21-14-0. Passed House 51-16-3. Transferred to Governor’s Office
PASSED LEGISLATION
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Passed Senate 33-0-2. Signed by Governor 3/6/2023
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
Status – Passed House 70-0-0. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Signed by Governor 3/20/23
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELE-HEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Status – Passed House 54-14-12. Passed Senate 32-3-0. Signed by Governor 3/27/23
HB 083 CONRAD VISA WAIVER PROGRAM
Status – Passed House 69-1-0. Passed Senate 31-3-1. Signed by Governor 3/15/2023
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Passed Senate 33-1-1. Signed by Governor 3/21/2023
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Signed by Governor 3/21/2023
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Passed Senate 35-0-0. Signed by Governor 3/23/3023
HB 213 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
Status – Passed House 39-30-1. Passed Senate 18-17-0. Signed by Governor 3/20/23
Status – VETOED by Governor Little. Passed House to override veto 58-12-0. Passed Senate to override veto 28-7-0 and passed into LAW
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
Status – Passed Senate 29-6-0. Passed House 51-16-3. Signed by Governor Little 3/27/23
SB 1094 INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL GRADUATES TEMPORARY LICENSURE
Status – Passed Senate 35-0-0. Passed House 65-2-3. Signed by Governor Little 3/27/23
SB 1096 CREATION OF ALZHEIMER AND DEMENTIA ALLIANCE
Status – Passed House 35-0-0. Passed House 67-0-3. Signed by Governor Little 3/27/23
HCR 9 MEDICAID MANAGED CARE LEGISLATIVE STUDY
Status – Passed House 67-2-1. Passed Senate 34-0-1. No Governor’s signature necessary
BILLS
HB 192 CHANGE IN PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND ELIGIBILITY
Status – Passed House 61-7-2. Passed Senate 33-1-1. Transferred to Governor’s office
HB 193 IN-PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS AND ESSENTIAL CAREGIVERS
Status – Passed House 66-3-1. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Transferred to Governor’s office
HB 206 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW OF ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
Status – Passed House 59-11-0. Passed Senate 26-6-3. Transferred to Governor’s office
HB 223 UPDATE TO MEDICAL CONSENT AND NATURAL DEATH ACT – clarifies who can utilize advanced care plans, living wills, and durable power for health care.
Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Passed Senate 34-1-0. Transferred to Governor’s Office
HB 244 IN PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS AND VACCINATION STATUS
Status – Passed House 57-11-2. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Transferred to Governor’s Office
Status – Passed Senate 28-7-0. Passed House 43-27-0. Transferred to Governor’s Office
Legislative Update 3/24/2023
- The Legislature entered its eleventh week of the legislative session. This week was marked by discussion about Medicaid expansion funding. The House did not pass Medicaid’s 2024 budget sending it back to the budget setting committee. The budget committee then reconsidered Medicaid’s budget on Wednesday, removing $152,360,000 because the federal government will now allow the states to remove people who are no longer eligible. During COVID-19, the states were required to keep all participants covered. The new bill is H369.
- As of today, the rejection of the assisted living wounds rules has still not been considered by the Senate on the floor. There are several rule resolutions that need still need to be addressed.
- Governor Little released a statement congratulating the Senate on passing his scholarship bill known as “Launch Idaho” that provides $8,000 to high school seniors enrolling in community colleges and vocational skills programs to encourage students to fill in-demand professions. Read the Governor’s statement here. Governor Little also released a statement after signing the “Idaho First” law about broadband investments. Read the Governor’s statement here.
- The legislative goal was to finish on March 24, but unfortunately the Senate is way behind in considering bills, while the House is mostly finished. The House will consider the Senate bills next week. The projected date to finish is now next Wednesday the 29th.
New Bills
HB 366 MEDICAID EXPANSION
HB 366 requires the implementation of Medicaid cost-saving measures for able-bodied adults to include a work requirement and enrollment caps. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting committee assignment.
Bills Signed by Governor Little
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 70-0-0. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Signed by Governor Little on 3/20/23.
HB 073 COUNSELOR REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG COURT
This bill allows licensed counselors to provide services to an adult in drug court even if the provider has a past criminal record. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Signed by Governor Little on 3/20/23.
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. This bill establishes license length, eligibility, qualifications, permitted duties and supervision requirements. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Passed Senate 33-1-1. Signed by Governor Little on 3/21/2023.
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
This bill updates the Telehealth Access Care Act by changing the term “telehealth” to “virtual care,” and adding interstate licensure exemptions for qualified providers licensed in other states to provide continuity of patient care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Signed by Governor Little on 3/21/2023.
HB 213 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
House bill 213 allocates money pay educational debts for nurses committed to practicing in designated rural health shortage areas and critical access hospitals in Idaho. Payments would be a maximum of $25,000. This bill replaces House Bill 84. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 39-30-1. Passed Senate 18-17-0. Signed by Governor Little on 3/20/23.
Bills
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELE-HEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
HB 061 allows mental health care providers licensed in other states to provide tele-health services to residents of Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 54-14-12. Passed Senate 32-3-0. Transferred to the Governor’s Office
HB 082 IDAHO DIETARY SUPPLEMENT ACT
This bill protects production, marketing, distribution, sale and use of dietary supplements that were legal as of July 1, 2022, regardless of any changes to federal law or regulation. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 51-13-6. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
House Bill 187 provides legal immunity protections when administrating CPR or an automatic external defibrillator. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Passed Senate 35-0-0. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
HB 192aa PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND ELIGIBILITY
This bill codifies that changes in eligibility requirements for public assistance programs must be established in law. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 62-6-2. Passed the Senate 33-1. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
HB 193a IN-PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS
This legislation clarifies that certain persons are essential caregivers and removes ambiguity by clearly stating that the right to visitation is a right to in-person visitation. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 66-2-2. Passed the Senate 34-0-1. Transferred to the Governor’s Office.
HB 206 ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
Amends, repeals, and adds to existing law to revise provisions regarding the legislative review of administrative rules. Read the bill – H0206 Sent to the 14th Order for amendment.
HB 223 UPDATE TO MEDICAL CONSENT AND NATURAL DEATH ACT
This bill clarifies who can utilize advanced care plans, living wills, and durable power for health care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor.
HB 224 CONSENT AND PELVIC EXAMS
House Bill 224 prohibits pelvic exams of anesthetized and unconscious patients and provides exceptions under certain circumstances. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 68-0-2. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor.
HB 244 IN PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS AND VACCINATION STATUS
This bill states that a facility may not require health screenings or deny in-person visitation based on criteria that are more stringent than that facility’s staff. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 57-11-2. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee.
HB 264 GESTATIONAL CARRIER AGREEMENT ACT
House Bill 264 defines parents of children born under a gestational carrier agreement and defines required terms of a gestational carrier agreement. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-1-0. Passed Senate 31-4-0. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 29-6-0. Passed House 51-16-3. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
SB 1094 INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL GRADUATES
This bill extends temporary license and registration to experienced International Medical Graduates currently only offered to U.S. Medical School graduates for residency training in Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 35-0-0. Passed House 65-2-3. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
SB 1096 ALZHEIMER AND DEMENTIA ALLIANCE
Adds to existing law to provide legislative intent and to direct the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to convene the Alzheimer’s alliance. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 35-0-0. Passed House 67-0-3. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
SB 1130 CORONAVIRUS STOP ACT
This bill establishes limitations on the ability of private and public entities to impose a requirement that individuals receive a coronavirus vaccination. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 28-7-0. Awaiting final reading on House floor.
HCR 9
House Concurrent Resolution 9 authorizes the Legislative Council to establish a task force to complete a study and make a recommendation regarding a comprehensive Medicaid managed care program. Read the concurrent resolution here. Status – Passed House 67-2-1. Awaiting readings on Senate floor
HCR 5 RULE REJECTION
HEALTH AND WELFARE – States findings of the Legislature and rejects certain rules of the Department of Health and Welfare relating to residential assisted living facilities.
Read the bill rejecting the wounds rules – HCR005
Legislative Update 3/17/2023
- The Legislature entered its tenth week of the legislative session. The budget setting committee finished approving the state budget hinting the session is a few weeks from adjourning.
- Governor Little released multiple statements about various initiatives and budgets advancing to include his public schools budget recommendation that bumps starting teacher pay to one of the top ten states in the nation. Read the Governor’s press releases here.
- The Medicaid Managed Care bill was not approved by the House HW committee, so instead a bill to create a taskforce to study moving to managed care has been introduced. HCR009
New Bills
HB 307 MRNA SHOT – CRIMINAL
This legislation states that providing or administering a MRNA shot is a misdemeanor. Read the bill Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 308 MEDICAL ETHICS DEFENSE ACT
This bill protects medical practitioners, health care institutions, and health care payers from discrimination or retaliation as a result of conscientious medical objection. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee but it did not pass the committee.
HCR 9
House Concurrent Resolution 9 authorizes the Legislative Council to establish a task force to complete a study and make a recommendation regarding a comprehensive Medicaid managed care program. Read the concurrent resolution here. Status – Passed House 67-2-1. Transferred to Senate
Bills Signed by Governor Little
HB 083 CONRAD VISA WAIVER PROGRAM
This bill expands the number of applicants healthcare facilities can submit in addition to reducing the administrative burden of the application process. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-1-0. Passed Senate 31-3-1. Signed by Governor 3/15/2023.
Bills
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 70-0-0. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Transferred to Governor’s Office
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELE-HEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
HB 061 allows mental health care providers licensed in other states to provide tele-health services to residents of Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 54-14-12. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 073 COUNSELOR REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG COURT
This bill allows licensed counselors to provide services to an adult in drug court even if the provider has a past criminal record. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. This bill establishes license length, eligibility, qualifications, permitted duties and supervision requirements. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Passed Senate 33-1-1. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
This bill updates the Teleheatlh Access Care Act by changing the term “telehealth” to “virtual care,” and adding interstate licensure exemptions for qualified providers licensed in other states to provide continuity of patient care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Passed Senate 34-0-1. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
House Bill 187 provides legal immunity protections when administrating CPR or an automatic external defibrillator. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor.
HB 192 PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND ELIGIBILITY
This bill codifies that changes in eligibility requirements for public assistance programs must be established in law. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 62-6-2. Transferred to Senate, reported out of the Health and Welfare committee for amendment in the Senate.
HB 193 IN-PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS
This legislation clarifies that certain persons are essential caregivers and removes ambiguity by clearly stating that the right to visitation is a right to in-person visitation. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 66-2-2. Transferred to Senate and passed out of the Health and Welfare Committee. Awaiting final reading on the Senate floor.
HB 213 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
House bill 213 allocates money pay educational debts for nurses committed to practicing in designated rural health shortage areas and critical access hospitals in Idaho. Payments would be a maximum of $25,000. This bill replaces House Bill 84. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 39-30-1. Passed Senate 18-17-0. Transferred to Governor’s Office.
HB 223 UPDATE TO MEDICAL CONSENT AND NATURAL DEATH ACT
This bill clarifies who can utilize advanced care plans, living wills, and durable power for health care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee.
HB 244 IN PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS AND VACCINATION STATUS
This bill states that a facility may not require health screenings or deny in-person visitation based on criteria that are more stringent than that facility’s staff. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 57-11-2. Transferred to Senate and passed the Health and Welfare Committee. Awaiting final reading on the Senate floor.
SB 1094 INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL GRADUATES
This bill extends temporary license and registration to experienced International Medical Graduates currently only offered to U.S. Medical School graduates for residency training in Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 35-0-0. Awaiting readings on House floor
SB 1096 ALZHEIMER AND DEMENTIA ALLIANCE
Adds to existing law to provide legislative intent and to direct the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to convene the Alzheimer’s alliance. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 35-0-0. Awaiting readings on House floor.
SB 1130 CORONAVIRUS STOP ACT
This bill establishes limitations on the ability of private and public entities to impose a requirement that individuals receive a coronavirus vaccination. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 28-7-0. Transferred to House and awaiting committee assignment.
Legislative Update 3/10/2023
The Legislature entered its ninth week of the legislative session. State budget bills are continuing to pass in both houses signaling the session could start winding down within the next few weeks. Bills that have been stagnant are finally starting to move through both houses. The majority of new bills are Governor Little’s initiatives that are predicted to be voted on in the last weeks of the session.
Governor Little honored the passing of Governor Phil Batt on March 4 by ordering the flags be lowered until Saturday, March 11. Read Governor Little’s statement here.
New Bills
HB 291 FAIR PHARMACY AUDITS ACT
House bill 291 creates uniform standards for the audit of pharmacy records. This bill replaces House bill 270 on the same topic which did not receive enough votes to be considered on the House floor. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting readings on House floor
Bills Signed by Governor Little
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Passed Senate 33-0-2. Signed by Governor on 3/6/2023
Bills
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 70-0-0. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELE-HEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
HB 061 allows mental health care providers licensed in other states to provide tele-health services to residents of Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 54-14-12. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 073 COUNSELOR REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG COURT
This bill allows licensed counselors to provide services to an adult in drug court even if the provider has a past criminal record. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 083 CONRAD VISA WAIVER PROGRAM
This bill expands the number of applicants healthcare facilities can submit in addition to reducing the administrative burden of the application process. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-1-0. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. This bill establishes license length, eligibility, qualifications, permitted duties and supervision requirements. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
This bill updates the Teleheatlh Access Care Act by changing the term “telehealth” to “virtual care,” and adding interstate licensure exemptions for qualified providers licensed in other states to provide continuity of patient care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 200 TRANSITION TO MEDICAID MANAGED CARE
House Bill 200 instructs the Department of Health and Welfare to present to the 2024 Legislature its plan to transition Medicaid to a managed care plan through “prepaid health plans” or the capitated contracted for Medicaid services. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee. The bill was rejected by the committee.
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
House Bill 187 provides legal immunity protections when administrating CPR or an automatic external defibrillator. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Transferred to Senate and referred to Judiciary and Rules Committee
HB 192 PUBLIC ASSISTANCE AND ELIGIBILITY
This bill codifies that changes in eligibility requirements for public assistance programs must be established in law. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 62-6-2. Transferred to Senate, reported out of the Health and Welfare committee for amendment.
HB 193 IN-PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS
This legislation clarifies that certain persons are essential caregivers and removes ambiguity by clearly stating that the right to visitation is a right to in-person visitation. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 66-2-2. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 200 TRANSITION TO MEDICAID MANAGED CARE
This bill instructs the Department of Health and Welfare to present to the 2024 Legislature its plan to transition Medicaid to a managed care plan. Read the bill here. Status – Did not pass out of committee and will not be considered on the House floor for voting
HB 213 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
House bill 213 allocates money pay educational debts for nurses committed to practicing in designated rural health shortage areas and critical access hospitals in Idaho. Payments would be a maximum of $25,000. This bill replaces House Bill 84. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 39-30-1. Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
HB 214 LEGISLATIVE APPROVAL FOR MEDICAID AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS
This bill requires legislative approval of waivers and amendments made to the Medicaid program by the Department of Health and Welfare. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 223 UPDATE TO MEDICAL CONSENT AND NATURAL DEATH ACT
This bill clarifies who can utilize advanced care plans, living wills, and durable power for health care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 69-0-1. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 244 IN PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS AND VACCINATION STATUS
This bill states that a facility may not require health screenings or deny in-person visitation based on criteria that are more stringent than that facility’s staff. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting readings on House floor
SB 1094 INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL GRADUATES
This bill extends temporary license and registration to experienced International Medical Graduates currently only offered to U.S. Medical School graduates for residency training in Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 35-0-0. Transferred to House and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1096 ALZHEIMER AND DEMENTIA ALLIANCE
Adds to existing law to provide legislative intent and to direct the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to convene the Alzheimer’s alliance. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 35-0-0. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1130 CORONAVIRUS STOP ACT
This bill establishes limitations on the ability of private and public entities to impose a requirement that individuals receive a coronavirus vaccination. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting final reading on Senate floor
Legislative Update 3/3/2023
The Legislature entered its eighth week of the legislative session. State budget bills are continuing to pass in both houses signaling the session could start winding down within the month. This week marked an uptick in new legislation as legislators realize their time is limited in printing and passing new bills.
Governor Little invited parents across Idaho to apply and participate in the Parent Advisory Council for the Empowering Parents Grant Program. Read the Governor’s press release here.
New Bills
HB 213 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
House bill 213 allocates money pay educational debts for nurses committed to practicing in designated rural health shortage areas and critical access hospitals in Idaho. Payments would be a maximum of $25,000. This bill replaces House Bill 84. Read the bill here. Status – Passed the House 39-31. Referred to the Senate HW Committee.
HB 214 LEGISLATIVE APPROVAL FOR MEDICAID AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS
This bill requires legislative approval of waivers and amendments made to the Medicaid program by the Department of Health and Welfare. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 223 UPDATE TO MEDICAL CONSENT AND NATURAL DEATH ACT
This bill clarifies who can utilize advanced care plans, living wills, and durable power for health care. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 244 IN PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS AND VACCINATION STATUS
This bill states that a facility may not require health screenings or deny in-person visitation based on criteria that are more stringent than that facility’s staff. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1130 CORONAVIRUS STOP ACT
This bill establishes limitations on the ability of private and public entities to impose a requirement that individuals receive a coronavirus vaccination. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Judiciary and Rules Committee
Bills
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS’ ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Passed Senate 33-0-2. Transferred to Governor’s office
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELE-HEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
HB 061 allows mental health care providers licensed in other states to provide tele-health services to residents of Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting voting on the House floor
HB 064 RESIDENTIAL CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING VISITATION
This bill codifies “in-person” visitation provided the visitor adheres to health screenings and infection control procedures. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 64-5-1. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. This bill establishes license length, eligibility, qualifications, permitted duties and supervision requirements. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 155 EMERGENCY VACCINES AND GOVERNMENT ACCESS
HB 155 expands Governor Little’s 2021 executive order and codifies that individuals will not be required to provide proof of vaccination or negative test results in order to receive state services, enter a government building, be employed or remain employed by the State with some exceptions. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 49-21-0. Referred out of State Affairs Committee for amendment
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
This bill updates the Teleheatlh Access Care Act by changing the term “telehealth” to “virtual care,” and adding interstate licensure exemptions for qualified providers licensed in other states to provide continuity of patient care. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 49-21-0. Referred out of State Affairs Committee for amendment
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
House Bill 187 provides legal immunity protections when administrating CPR or an automatic external defibrillator. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting readings on House floor
HB 193 IN-PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS
This legislation clarifies that certain persons are essential caregivers and removes ambiguity by clearly stating that the right to visitation is a right to in-person visitation. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting readings on House floor
HB 200 TRANSITION TO MEDICAID MANAGED CARE
This bill instructs the Department of Health and Welfare to present to the 2024 Legislature its plan to transition Medicaid to a managed care plan. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 29-6-0. Transferred to House and referred to Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1094 INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL GRADUATES
This bill extends temporary license and registration to experienced International Medical Graduates currently only offered to U.S. Medical School graduates for residency training in Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 35-0-0. Transferred to House
SB 1096 ALZHEIMER AND DEMENTIA ALLIANCE
Adds to existing law to provide legislative intent and to direct the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to convene the Alzheimer’s alliance. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting readings on Senate floor
Legislative Update 2/24/2023
- The Legislature entered its seventh week of the legislative session. State agency budget-setting has begun, and new bills are expected to slow down. The Medicaid budget is scheduled to be set on March 6th. The Medication Assistant – Certified bill might come up in the Senate HW Committee this week. Representative Raybould, on the JFAC committee, continues to work on financial issues for SNFs. Both houses spent considerable time discussing parental rights in school, as well as many social and tax related issues.
- Governor Little released a statement with other elected officials about opposing the EPA’s regulations on Idaho’s water. Read Governor Little’s press release here.
New Bills
HB 162 TELEHEALTH ACCESS CARE ACT AMENDMENT
This bill updates the Teleheatlh Access Care Act by changing the term “telehealth” to “virtual care,” and adding interstate licensure exemptions for qualified providers licensed in other states to provide continuity of patient care. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting readings on House floor.
HB 187 IMMUNITY FOR CPR AND AED USE
House Bill 187 provides legal immunity protections when administrating CPR or an automatic external defibrillator. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Judiciary, Rules, and Administration Committee.
HB 193 IN-PERSON VISITATION RIGHTS
This legislation clarifies that certain persons are essential caregivers and removes ambiguity by clearly stating that the right to visitation is a right to in-person visitation. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Health and Welfare Committee
HB 200 TRANSITION TO MEDICAID MANAGED CARE
This bill instructs the Department of Health and Welfare to present to the 2024 Legislature its plan to transition Medicaid to a managed care plan. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting committee assignment.
Bills
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS’ ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents, and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Passed Senate 33-0-2. Transferred to Governor’s office.
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 70-0-0. Transferred to Senate and referred to Health and Welfare Committee.
HB 063 THERAPISTS AND SINCERELY HELD PRINCIPLES
HB 063 protects counselors and therapists from civil litigation, criminal prosecution, or disciplinary action for refusing clients whose goals, outcomes, or behaviors conflict with their own sincerely held beliefs. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 57-13-0. Transferred to Senate and referred to Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
HB 064 RESIDENTIAL CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING VISITATION
This bill codifies “in-person” visitation provided the visitor adheres to health screenings and infection control procedures. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 64-5-1. Transferred to Senate and awaiting committee assignment.
HB 073 COUNSELOR REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG COURT
This bill allows licensed counselors to provide services to an adult in drug court even if the provider has a past criminal record. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Transferred to Senate and awaiting committee assignment.
HB 84 RURAL NURSE LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAM
Money allocated to the fund would pay educational debts for nurses committed to practicing in designated rural health shortage areas and critical access hospitals in Idaho. Payments would be a maximum of $25,000. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting final reading on House floor.
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. This bill establishes license length, eligibility, qualifications, permitted duties and supervision requirements. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting final reading on House floor.
HB 155 EMERGENCY VACCINES AND GOVERNMENT ACCESS
HB 155 expands Governor Little’s 2021 executive order and codifies that individuals will not be required to provide proof of vaccination or negative test results in order to receive state services, enter a government building, be employed, or remain employed by the State with some exceptions. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 49-21-0. Transferred to Senate and referred to State Affairs Committee.
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect, and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Passed Senate 29-6-0. Transferred to House and referred to Health and Welfare Committee.
SB 1096 ALZHEIMER AND DEMENTIA ALLIANCE
Adds to existing law to provide legislative intent and to direct the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to convene the Alzheimer’s alliance. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
Legislative Update 2/17/2023
The Legislature entered its sixth week of the legislative session. Legislators have been busy reviewing the budget and introducing new legislation before the deadline passes to print new bills. Major news included a bill introducing the possible repeal of Medicaid, legislators learning about a major increase in calls to the suicide hotline and continued discussion on education funding.
Governor Little visited high school students in Kuna, Twin Falls and Rigby last week to discuss his “Idaho Launch” scholarship program which will provide $8,500 to high school seniors enrolling in Idaho education programs entering professions such as nursing, information technology and more. Read the Governor’s press release on his visit here.
New Bills
HB 153 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. This bill establishes license length, eligibility, qualifications, permitted duties and supervision requirements. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 154 MRNA SHOT – CRIMINAL
This legislation states that providing or administering a MRNA shot is a misdemeanor. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 155 EMERGENCY VACCINES AND GOVERNMENT ACCESS
HB 155 expands Governor Little’s 2021 executive order and codifies that individuals will not be required to provide proof of vaccination or negative test results in order to receive state services, enter a government building, be employed or remain employed by the State with some exceptions. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting a committee assignment
Bills
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Awaiting the last reading on the Senate floor.
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Passed the House 70 – 0.
HB 063 THERAPISTS AND SINCERELY HELD PRINCIPLES
HB 063 protects counselors and therapists from civil litigation, criminal prosecution or disciplinary action for refusing clients whose goals, outcomes or behaviors conflict with their own sincerely held beliefs. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 57-13-0. Transferred to Senate and referred to Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
HB 073 COUNSELOR REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG COURT
This bill allows licensed counselors to provide services to an adult in drug court even if the provider has a past criminal record. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 67-0-3. Transferred to Senate and awaiting committee assignment.
HB 121 RESIDENTIAL CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING VISITATION
HB 121 codifies “in-person” visitation rights in residential and assisted living facilities provided the visitor adheres to health screenings, restricting the visitor when testing positive for an infectious disease, requiring the visitor to comply with infectious control procedure, and limiting the number of people in a room. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 123 MEDICAID EXPANSION REPEAL
This bill repeals §56-267 of Idaho Code known as Medicaid Expansion which was codified after the Affordable Care Act was passed. Medicaid expansion allows working low-income Idahoans to receive Medicaid coverage. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting final reading on Senate floor.
Legislative Update 2/10/2023
- The Legislature entered its fifth week of the legislative session. Major news included voting to increase State employee pay and the introduction of several property tax relief proposals.
- The House narrowly passed the Governor’s “Idaho Launch” post high-school scholarship program (HB24). The program is part of my IDAHO FIRST plan and would provide eligible Idaho high school students $8,500 to pursue in-demand careers after graduation or receiving their GED. (Passed 36-34)
- Recipients of the Idaho Launch grants could use the money at any Idaho university, community college, career technical program, or workforce training provider of their choice. If approved by the legislature, grants would be available to Idaho students starting with the class of 2024.
- Funding for the Idaho Launch program comes from the $80 million secured during the 2022 Extraordinary Session last September. The program’s goal is to improve workforce education opportunities and fill in-demand career needs throughout the state, such as in the fields of nursing, welding, and truck driving.
- Governor Little along with 23 other Republican governors released a joint statement responding to Arkansas Governor Sander’s reaction to President Biden’s State of the Union Address:
“Tonight, Governor Sanders showed that while Washington is filled with chaos and crisis, Republican Governors are delivering on promises made to our constituents. Americans look to our states for a better form of government – one that prioritizes freedom in education, energy independence, safer communities, and opportunity for all. The Biden Administration should take notes.”
Bills
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS’ ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents, and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Transferred to Senate and referred to Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
HB 027 EMPLOYEE MEDICAL INFORMATION PROTECTION ACT
HB 027 prevents an employer from discriminating or refusing to hire an individual based on their Coronavirus vaccination status or other emergency authorized vaccines. This Act states that an employer may not discriminate in regard to compensation, terms, or conditions of employment. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Business Committee
HB 028 IDAHO ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS BOARD
This bill creates the Idaho Allied Health Professionals Board by combining the physical therapy licensure board, dietetic licensure board, occupational therapy licensure board, board of athletic trainers, and respiratory therapy licensure board. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee. This bill was held in committee because the individual boards were not consulted by the Division of Occupational Licensing. The bill will return after meetings with stakeholders.
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELEHEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
HB 061 allows mental health care providers licensed in other states to provide telehealth services to residents of Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 063 THERAPISTS AND SINCERELY HELD PRINCIPLES
HB 063 protects counselors and therapists from civil litigation, criminal prosecution, or disciplinary action for refusing clients whose goals, outcomes, or behaviors conflict with their own sincerely held beliefs. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee. Bill was sent to the House floor by a 7 to 6 vote in committee.
HB 064 RESIDENTIAL CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING VISITATION
This bill codifies “in-person” visitation provided the visitor adheres to health screenings and infection control procedures. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 069 EMERGENCY VACCINES AND GOVERNMENT ACCESS
HB 069 expands Governor Little’s 2021 executive order and codifies that individuals will not be required to provide proof of vaccination or negative test results in order to receive state services, enter a government building, be employed, or remain employed by the State. Reach the bill here. Status – Referred to House State Affairs Committee
HB 073 COUNSELOR REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG COURT
This bill allows licensed counselors to provide services to an adult in drug court even if the provider has a past criminal record. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Judiciary, Rules, and Administration Committee.
SB 1012 PATIENT VISITATION RIGHTS
SB 1012 codifies the right for families to visit family members receiving care in hospitals, hospices, and at long-term care facilities which cannot be waived by an emergency declaration. Additionally, the bill states no health care facility in Idaho may require a vaccine as a condition of visitation. Read the bill here Status – Referred to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect, and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to for printing and committee assignment.
Looking Ahead
- The Idaho Commission on Aging board is meeting on February 16th at 10am. Read the agenda here
- The Idaho State Independent Living Council is meeting on February 16th at 2pm.
Legislative Update 2/3/2023
The Legislature entered its fourth week of the legislative session.
The Senate and House Health and Welfare Committees met to a make a recommendation to the legislature on the future of Medicaid Expansion in Idaho. Both committees expressed serious concerns over the program’s sustainability but determined Medicaid Expansion should remain in effect for now. Each committee outlined several recommendations to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Read the Senate committee letter here and the House committee letter here.
Governor Little released a statement highlighting the Wall Street Journal’s editorial piece on Idaho’s tax cuts which noted Governor Little, and the State Legislature reduced income tax to a flat 5.8% in 2022 and has returned over 2.7 billion in one-time tax relief dollars since 2019. Read the Governor’s news release here.
Bills
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS’ ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Passed House 65-0-5. Transferred to Senate and referred to Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
027 EMPLOYEE MEDICAL INFORMATION PROTECTION ACT
HB 027 prevents an employer from discriminating or refusing to hire an individual based on their Coronavirus vaccination status or other emergency authorized vaccines. This Act states that an employer may not discriminate in regard to compensation, terms or conditions of employment. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Business Committee
HB 028 IDAHO ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS BOARD
This bill creates the Idaho Allied Health Professionals Board by combining the physical therapy licensure board, dietetic licensure board, occupational therapy licensure board, board of athletic trainers, and respiratory therapy licensure board. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 61 INTERSTATE TELEHEALTH FOR MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
HB 061 allows mental health care providers licensed in other states to provide telehealth services to residents of Idaho. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 062 LIMITED LICENSING FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL GRADUATES
This bill creates a license for “bridge year physicians” who are students that have graduated from medical school but are not yet matched with a residency program. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 063 THERAPISTS AND SINCERELY HELD PRINCIPLES
HB 063 protects counselors and therapists from civil litigation, criminal prosecution or disciplinary action for refusing clients whose goals, outcomes or behaviors conflict with their own sincerely held beliefs. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 064 RESIDENTIAL CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING VISITATION
This bill codifies “in-person” visitation provided the visitor adheres to health screenings and infection control procedures. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 069 EMERGENCY VACCINES AND GOVERNMENT ACCESS
HB 069 expands Governor Little’s 2021 executive order and codifies that individuals will not be required to provide proof of vaccination or negative test results in order to receive state services, enter a government building, be employed or remain employed by the State. Reach the bill here. Status – Referred to House State Affairs Committee
SB 1009 HEALTH RIGHTS
This bill seeks to provide fairness of treatment and raise patient awareness with respect to requirements for informed consent and the use of experimental drugs. This legislation places restrictions on governmental authority with advertising of certain types of medicines or vaccines. Read the bill here Status – Referred to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
SB 1012 PATIENT VISITATION RIGHTS
SB 1012 codifies the right for families to visit family members receiving care in hospitals, hospices, and at long-term care facilities which cannot be waived by an emergency declaration. Additionally, the bill states no health care facility in Idaho may require a vaccine as a condition of visitation. Read the bill here Status – Referred to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to for printing and committee assignment.
Legislative Update 1/27/2023
The Legislature entered its third week of the legislative session. Higher education institutions made their budget presentations to JFAC this past week.
Bills
HB 003 PHYSICIANS AND PHYSICIANS’ ASSISTANTS REGISTRATION amendment
This bill removes outdated requirements that maintains a physician must obtain a supervising physician registration when supervising interns, residents and others. It also adjusts supervisory requirements to match legislation from 2021. Read the bill here. Status – Awaiting third reading and voting on the House floor
HB 027 EMPLOYEE MEDICAL INFORMATION PROTECTION ACT amendment
HB 027 prevents an employer from discriminating or refusing to hire an individual based on their Coronavirus vaccination status or other emergency authorized vaccines. This Act states that an employer may not discriminate in regards to compensation, terms or conditions of employment. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Business Committee
HB 028 IDAHO ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS BOARD amendment
This bill creates the Idaho Allied Health Professionals Board by combining the physical therapy licensure board, dietetic licensure board, occupational therapy licensure board, board of athletic trainers, and respiratory therapy licensure board. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
HB 031 CERTIFIED MEDICATION ASSISTANTS amendment
This bill increases access to education by allowing accredited bodies to provide education to certified nursing assistants who are seeking the MA-C certification. In addition, qualified testing centers will be allowed to provide the required proctored test. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to House Health and Welfare Committee
SB 1009 HEALTH RIGHTS amendment
This bill seeks to provide fairness of treatment and raise patient awareness with respect to requirements for informed consent and the use of experimental drugs. This legislation places restrictions on governmental authority with advertising of certain types of medicines or vaccines. Read the bill here Status – Referred to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
SB 1012 PATIENT VISITATION RIGHTS amendment
SB 1012 codifies the right for families to visit family members receiving care in hospitals, hospices, and at long-term care facilities which cannot be waived by an emergency declaration. Additionally, the bill states no health care facility in Idaho may require a vaccine as a condition of visitation. Read the bill here Status – Referred to the Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
SB 1028 COMMISSION ON AGING VULNERABLE ADULTS
This bill updates and aligns verbiage related to abuse, neglect and treatment of vulnerable adults to correspond with rules held by Idaho Commission on Aging. Read the bill here. Status – Referred to for printing and committee assignment.
Looking Ahead