This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes regarding the application process for health profession licenses in Arizona. Under the new provisions, health profession regulatory boards and licensing authorities would be prohibited from including questions on applications that inquire whether an applicant has sought mental health assistance, diagnosis, or treatment. However, they may still ask if the applicant is currently under a monitoring order from another state's regulatory entity for a health condition, including substance abuse, with the stipulation that applicants are not required to respond if the monitoring is part of a confidential program.
Additionally, the bill clarifies the definitions of "health profession regulatory board" and "licensing authority," ensuring that the latter does not include entities that issue licenses under specific chapters or health profession regulatory boards as defined in existing law. These changes aim to protect applicants' privacy regarding mental health issues while still allowing for necessary oversight in the licensing process.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 32-3223.01
House Engrossed Version: 32-3223.01
Chaptered Version: 32-3223.01