The bill amends sections 4723.091, 4723.092, and 4723.28 of the Revised Code to enhance the regulations surrounding the Board of Nursing and the criminal records check process for nursing license applicants. Key provisions include a requirement for applicants—whether for initial licensure, reactivation of inactive licenses, or volunteer nursing certificates after a ten-year retirement—to submit a request for a criminal records check to the bureau of criminal identification and investigation. The bill also establishes that the results of these checks, along with any information from the federal bureau of investigation, are confidential and can only be disclosed to the individual and the Board of Nursing for specific purposes.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the Board of Nursing cannot deny a license or certificate solely based on certain criminal convictions unless specified by the Revised Code. It outlines the sanctions for violations, including fraud in obtaining a license, and sets forth procedures for disciplinary actions. The bill also addresses the adjudication process for nurses facing criminal charges, emphasizing confidentiality during investigations and the board's authority to require mental or physical examinations if necessary. It includes provisions for reconsideration of actions if a conviction is overturned and repeals existing sections of the Revised Code, declaring the act an emergency measure to ensure public safety and confidentiality regarding criminal records checks.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4723.091, 4723.092, 4723.28
As Reported By House Committee: 4723.091, 4723.092, 4723.28
As Passed By House: 4723.091, 4723.092, 4723.28
As Reported By Senate Committee: 4723.091, 4723.092, 4723.28
As Passed By Senate: 4723.091, 4723.092, 4723.28
As Enrolled: 4723.091, 4723.092, 4723.28