This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes regarding the application process for health profession licenses in Arizona. Specifically, it would prohibit health profession regulatory boards and licensing authorities from including questions on applications that inquire whether an applicant has sought mental health assistance, diagnosis, or treatment. However, it allows these boards to ask if an applicant is currently under a monitoring order from another state's regulatory entity for a health condition, including substance abuse, while ensuring that applicants are not required to disclose information if the monitoring is part of a confidential program.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "licensing authority" to include any agency, department, board, or commission that issues licenses, permits, certificates, or registrations, while explicitly excluding the Board of Certified Reporters and health profession regulatory boards. The changes aim to protect applicants' privacy regarding their mental health history and to streamline the licensing process without compromising public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-3223.01
House Engrossed Version: 32-3223.01
Chaptered Version: 32-3223.01