The bill amends various sections of the General Laws to update the licensing and renewal processes for several professions, including barbers, veterinarians, chiropractors, dentists, funeral directors, nurses, physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, physician assistants, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and applied behavior analysts. Key changes include the introduction of new language for application forms and renewal notifications, specifically replacing "mail an application" with "send a reminder" for license renewals, and standardizing the use of gender-neutral language by substituting "his or her" with "their."

The bill also establishes specific continuing education requirements that practitioners must complete within a two-year period prior to license renewal. Additionally, it clarifies the definitions and applicability of unlicensed health care practices, outlining the scope of practices that do not require licensure while excluding certain medical procedures. It allows for the practice of unlicensed health care in Rhode Island, provided practitioners do not misrepresent their licensure status.

The amendments aim to modernize notification processes, synchronize renewal dates, and streamline licensing requirements, ultimately enhancing the regulatory framework for these professions. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7836: 5-10-10, 5-25-12, 5-30-12, 5-33.2-15, 5-34-19, 5-37-10, 5-40-10, 5-40.1-12, 5-44-15, 5-54-11, 5-63.2-17, 5-86-13, 23-74-1