This bill amends several sections of the Nebraska Regulation of Health Professions Act to enhance the regulation of unregulated health professions and to clarify the criteria for changes in the scope of practice. Key changes include the insertion of language that specifies unregulated practice must be shown to be "harming or endangering" public health, safety, or welfare, rather than merely having the potential to do so. Additionally, the bill introduces new criteria for determining the necessity of regulation, such as ensuring adequate education and training requirements for practitioners and the adequacy of the proposed level of regulation to protect public welfare.

The bill also modifies the application process for regulating health professions, requiring a detailed explanation of potential risks and benefits associated with regulation or changes in scope of practice. It establishes a more structured approach for technical committees that review applications, ensuring they are impartial and composed of diverse members. Furthermore, the director is tasked with preparing a report for the Legislature that includes findings from the committee and board, with a new timeline for submission set at six months instead of twelve. Overall, these amendments aim to create a more effective regulatory framework that prioritizes public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-6221, 71-6223, 71-6224, 71-6226