The bill SB1508 amends Arizona law to establish comprehensive licensure and regulatory requirements for nutritionists and dietitian nutritionists under the Department of Health Services (DHS). It introduces specific criteria for obtaining a two-year license, including educational qualifications (a master's or doctoral degree in nutrition), supervised practice experience of at least 1,000 hours, and passing a national examination. The bill also outlines the renewal process, continuing education requirements, and provisions for military members regarding license expiration during active duty. Additionally, it expands the authority of licensed nutrition professionals to order various nutrition-related services and mandates healthcare institutions to develop written policies to support these practices.

Key changes from current law include a shift in focus from a vulnerable adult system study committee to the licensure of nutrition professionals, the introduction of detailed standards for education and supervised practice, and the establishment of specific responsibilities for supervisors. The bill allows the DHS Director to take disciplinary actions without a hearing in certain cases and requires notification to a licensee's employer if disciplinary action is initiated. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the professional standards and regulatory framework for nutritionists and dietitian nutritionists in Arizona, ensuring public health and safety while expanding their practice capabilities.

Statutes affected:
House Engrossed Version: 32-1901, 36-414, 36-416, 36-416.01, 36-3601, 13-3401, 32-1965, 32-1967, 32-1923, 32-1970, 32-1974, 36-2151, 32-1962, 32-1964, 36-422, 30-654, 32-1308, 32-1368, 32-2805, 36-405, 36-765.05, 36-766.06, 36-851.01, 36-882, 36-897.01, 36-1903, 36-2063, 36-4203, 35-190, 36-4201, 12-2801