The bill proposes the establishment of a new chapter, CHAPTER 54.1, titled "Certified Surgical First Assistants," within Title 5 of the General Laws concerning businesses and professions. It outlines the creation of a board of licensure for certified surgical first assistants, which will consist of seven members appointed by the governor. The board will include two licensed physicians who have actively engaged in the practice of surgery, two representatives of the general public not employed in any health-related field, and three certified surgical first assistants or health care practitioners with at least three years of practice in the state.

The board will be responsible for evaluating applicants, administering licensure, and enforcing regulations related to the practice of surgical assisting. The bill defines key terms, including "certified surgical first assistant," and stipulates that surgical facilities may only employ individuals licensed by the board, with exceptions for registered nurses and other healthcare practitioners acting within their scope of licensure, as well as individuals who receive a waiver from the department under special circumstances.

Additionally, the bill sets forth the criteria for licensure, which includes completion of a recognized surgical assistant training program or equivalent experience, and mandates continuing education for license renewal. It establishes grounds for the refusal, suspension, or revocation of licenses based on unprofessional conduct. The provisions of this chapter are designed to ensure the competency and accountability of certified surgical first assistants. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.