The bill amends various sections of the Idaho Code concerning the qualifications and regulatory framework for psychologists, particularly focusing on prescriptive authority. It introduces definitions for "collaborative agreement" and "collaborative prescriber," which clarify the relationship between psychologists and their supervising medical professionals. A significant requirement for licensure is the implementation of a fingerprint-based criminal history background check. Additionally, the Board of Psychologist Examiners is mandated to include at least one member with a master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology. The bill also emphasizes collaboration between psychologists and licensed medical providers when issuing prescriptions.

Moreover, the bill repeals certain sections related to the unauthorized practice of medicine and an advisory panel for prescriptive rules, while revising the provisions for prescriptive authority and provisional certification. New requirements for provisional certification include obtaining a doctorate from an accredited institution and a master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology. Psychologists must also establish a written collaborative agreement with at least one collaborative prescriber, replacing previous supervision agreements. The bill caps application and certification fees at $600 and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 54-2302, 54-2304, 54-2305, 54-2307, 54-2312, 54-2312A, 54-2313, 54-2316, 54-2317, 54-2318, 54-2320