This bill amends existing laws regarding the licensing of health care professionals and the granting of clinical privileges in hospitals and rural emergency hospitals. It mandates that hospitals cannot ask applicants about their past history or diagnosis of mental illness, substance use disorders, or other physical or behavioral health conditions when applying for clinical privileges. However, hospitals are permitted to inquire if the applicant currently has any untreated condition that could impair their ability to practice safely and competently.

Additionally, the bill extends similar provisions to licensing boards for health-related professions, prohibiting them from including questions about an applicant's past health history in their licensure applications. Like hospitals, these boards may ask about current untreated conditions that could affect the applicant's professional capabilities. Overall, the bill aims to reduce stigma and discrimination against health care professionals based on their mental health or past health issues while ensuring patient safety and professional standards are maintained.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135B.7