Senate Bill 461 aims to establish a new chapter in the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on the licensure and regulation of anesthesiologist assistants. The bill defines key terms related to anesthesiology, including "anesthesiologist," "anesthesiologist assistant," and "supervision." It outlines the powers and duties of the board of medical examiners, which will be responsible for reviewing qualifications, granting licenses, setting fees, and establishing continuing education requirements for anesthesiologist assistants. The bill also details the scope of practice for anesthesiologist assistants, emphasizing that they can only perform duties under the supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist and must adhere to specific regulations regarding their practice.

Additionally, the bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 63-6-101(a)(2), by replacing the existing language to include one member who is an anesthesiologist assistant on the board of medical examiners. This change aims to ensure representation from the anesthesiologist assistant community in the regulatory process. The act will take effect upon becoming law for the purpose of promulgating rules, while all other provisions will be effective starting January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-6-101(a)(2), 63-6-101