This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to medical education, specifically focusing on residency requirements for students and the transition of the WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, Idaho) medical education program. It revises the definition of a "resident student" to include specific criteria for graduate and professional programs, ensuring that applicants for special programs, including the Idaho medical, dental, and veterinary medicine education programs, meet the established residency requirements. The bill also clarifies that no new slots for Idaho students in the WWAMI program will be reserved after the 2026-2027 academic year, although current students will continue to receive support until they complete their studies.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new section that mandates the state board of education to designate at least two medical education programs within Idaho or adjacent states for new Idaho medical education students, starting with the 2027-2028 academic year. These programs will be funded by Idaho state funds, with a requirement that a majority of clinical placements occur within Idaho by the 2029-2030 academic year. The bill also outlines the conditions under which the state board can designate additional programs and sets a timeline for the transition to state-owned medical education programs. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-3717B, 33-3731