The bill amends Section 23-1-17 of the General Laws in Chapter 23-1, which pertains to the Department of Health. It introduces new provisions that enhance the powers of the director of health, allowing for the establishment of information collection and minimum sanitary requirements, as well as the authority to issue, revoke, suspend, or annul licenses and permits. Additionally, in the event of a public health emergency, the director can grant temporary Rhode Island healthcare provider licenses for up to ninety days to those with valid licenses from other states.

Furthermore, the bill includes a new subsection that empowers the director to review and issue licenses for pending applications if a board of licensure has been unable to establish a quorum for more than thirty business days. This authority does not extend to pending disciplinary actions. The act is set to take effect upon passage, streamlining the licensure process and enhancing the director's ability to respond to public health needs.

Statutes affected:
6384: 23-1-17