The bill amends the Public Health Code to update the requirements for renewing pharmacist and pharmacy technician licenses in Michigan. Specifically, it stipulates that licensees must provide evidence of completing a specified number of continuing education hours or passing a proficiency examination within a defined timeframe prior to renewal. For pharmacists, this requirement is set at 30 hours over the past four years, while pharmacy technicians must complete 20 hours over the past two years. The language has been modified to replace "he or she has attended" with "the licensee completed," clarifying the expectation for licensees.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department, in consultation with the board, establish rules requiring a portion of the continuing education to focus on pain and symptom management. It also introduces a provision allowing licensees to fulfill 100% of their continuing education requirements through online or electronic media, provided that these formats meet standards approved by the Department and the board. This change aims to enhance accessibility and flexibility in meeting educational requirements for healthcare professionals.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.17731