This bill establishes a framework for the temporary licensure of student respiratory therapists, allowing them to practice under specific conditions while they complete their education. It introduces a new definition for "respiratory care student" and outlines the process for obtaining a temporary student license, which is valid for a maximum of 18 months or 6 months post-graduation, whichever is shorter. The bill mandates that student respiratory therapists can only perform non-critical care procedures for which they have documented competency and must work under the direct supervision of a licensed respiratory care practitioner for the first two months of employment. After this period, they may operate under the supervision of various licensed healthcare professionals.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to clarify that students may perform respiratory care services related to their clinical education without a license, provided they are under supervision. It also includes provisions for the responsibilities of licensed respiratory care practitioners to maintain documentation of all individuals providing respiratory care at their facilities. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with an effective date of September 13, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 326-E:1, 326-E:2, 326-E:6, 326-E:8
As Amended by the House: 326-E:1, 326-E:2, 326-E:6, 326-E:8
As Amended by the Senate: 326-E:1, 326-E:2, 326-E:6, 326-E:8
Version adopted by both bodies: 326-E:1, 326-E:2, 326-E:6, 326-E:8
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 326-E:1, 326-E:2, 326-E:6, 326-E:8