This bill amends the existing law regarding criminal history background checks for individuals seeking licensure in certain health care professions. It expands the definition of "health care professional" to include applicants for licensure from the State Board of Applied Behavior Analyst Examiners, the State Board of Creative Arts and Activities Therapies, and the State Board of Dietetics and Nutrition. As a result, these individuals will be required to undergo a criminal history background check before being granted an initial license.

Additionally, the bill maintains the authority of the relevant boards and the Division of Consumer Affairs to refuse to renew or revoke a license based on criminal history record information that warrants such action. The changes will take effect on the first day of the seventh month following the date of enactment and will apply to applications for initial licensure or renewal received by the specified state boards after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:1-28