The bill amends the Geologists Regulation Act to modernize the regulatory framework for professional geologists in Nebraska. Key updates include the introduction of terms such as "certificate of authorization" for organizations and "licensee" for individuals authorized to practice geology. The bill clarifies definitions related to supervision and responsibility in geological work, establishes a code of practice for professional conduct, and outlines the board's authority to impose penalties, including probation, suspension, or revocation of licenses for violations. It also streamlines the application process for licensure, allowing for verified information from the National Association of State Boards of Geology and establishing fees for applications and renewals.
Significant deletions from current law include the removal of specific prohibitions against unlicensed practice and the previous board membership structure, which is now defined to include seven members: five professional geologists, one faculty member from a Nebraska geology department, and one non-geologist public member. The bill also introduces a temporary permit for licensed geologists from other jurisdictions and clarifies the requirements for applicants, including education, examinations, and experience. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance professional standards, ensure accountability, and protect public safety in the practice of geology in Nebraska.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 81-3501, 81-3502, 81-3503, 81-3507, 81-3508, 81-3511, 81-3509, 81-3509.01, 81-3512, 81-3517, 81-3514, 81-3515, 81-3518, 81-3519, 81-3520, 81-3521, 81-3522, 81-3525, 81-3526, 81-3527, 81-3528, 81-3529, 81-3530, 81-3531, 81-3534, 81-3535, 81-3536, 81-3537, 81-3539, 81-3540, 81-3541
Final Reading: 81-3501, 81-3502, 81-3503, 81-3507, 81-3508, 81-3511, 81-3509, 81-3509.01, 81-3512, 81-3517, 81-3514, 81-3515, 81-3518, 81-3519, 81-3520, 81-3521, 81-3522, 81-3525, 81-3526, 81-3527, 81-3528, 81-3529, 81-3530, 81-3531, 81-3534, 81-3535, 81-3536, 81-3537, 81-3539, 81-3540, 81-3541
Slip Law: 81-3501, 81-3502, 81-3503, 81-3507, 81-3508, 81-3511, 81-3509, 81-3509.01, 81-3512, 81-3517, 81-3514, 81-3515, 81-3518, 81-3519, 81-3520, 81-3521, 81-3522, 81-3525, 81-3526, 81-3527, 81-3528, 81-3529, 81-3530, 81-3531, 81-3534, 81-3535, 81-3536, 81-3537, 81-3539, 81-3540, 81-3541