The bill amends the Public Health Code by updating the renewal process for licenses and registrations. It specifies that licensees or registrants must renew their credentials by the expiration date, with the department required to notify them via mail or electronic means. Notably, the language has been changed to replace gender-specific terms with neutral terms, such as changing "his or her" to "the" and "his or her" to "the individual's." Additionally, the bill allows for a 60-day grace period after expiration during which the licensee can continue to practice, provided they meet certain requirements. If not renewed within this period, the license becomes null and void, but individuals may apply for relicensure or reregistration under specific conditions.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that allows licensees or registrants to voluntarily surrender their licenses or registrations. This process requires them to submit a written notice along with their certificate of licensure or registration. The surrender takes effect upon receipt by the department, but it does not absolve the individual of any civil or criminal liabilities for actions taken prior to the surrender. The bill also clarifies that the expiration or surrender of a license does not terminate the board's authority to impose sanctions on the individual.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.16201