House Bill No. by Representative Dewitt proposes amendments to the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME) regarding its membership, powers, and duties. The bill increases the number of voting members on the board from ten to eleven by adding a member selected from a list provided by the Louisiana Academy of Physician Assistants. It also introduces a provision allowing the governor to remove and reappoint members at the beginning of their term, modifies the term limits for board members from three consecutive terms to two, and establishes mandatory powers for the board to select officers and adopt necessary rules and bylaws for its efficient operation.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the LSBME adopt rules in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act to fulfill its duties and functions. This change shifts certain powers from discretionary to mandatory, ensuring that the board actively engages in governance and operational efficiency. The proposed amendments aim to enhance the structure and functionality of the LSBME, thereby improving oversight and regulation within the medical profession in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
HB138 Original: 37:1263(B), 37:1270(B)