The proposed Anesthesiologist Assistant Licensure Act establishes a comprehensive framework for the licensure and regulation of anesthesiologist assistants in Kansas. It defines essential terms such as "anesthesiologist," "anesthesiologist assistant," and "supervising anesthesiologist," while assigning the State Board of Healing Arts the responsibility for overseeing the licensure process. The bill outlines the application and renewal processes for both active and inactive licenses, mandates continuing education for license renewal, and allows for temporary licensure under specific conditions. It also details the grounds for disciplinary action against licensed anesthesiologist assistants and prohibits unlicensed practice, thereby enhancing patient safety and care standards.

Additionally, the bill creates an anesthesiologist assistant council to advise the board on licensure matters and modifies existing laws related to criminal history checks for applicants. It specifies that state and local law enforcement agencies can assist in fingerprinting, and establishes confidentiality for criminal history information, which will expire on July 1, 2029, unless renewed. The legislation also clarifies the roles of supervising licensees in the healing arts, ensuring they remain actively engaged in their practice, and repeals conflicting statutes to streamline the regulation of anesthesia practices.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-4714, 65-1163, 65-28, 65-28a02