House Bill 2197, also known as Senate Bill 2555, amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 63-1-130, which pertains to the licensing, certification, and registration processes for individuals in the health care field. The bill allows individuals to request a notice from the licensing authority regarding their qualifications based on their criminal history before submitting an application. If the authority finds the individual disqualified due to their criminal history, it is required to provide a written notification detailing the reasons for this determination. Importantly, this notice is limited to the individual's criminal history and does not prevent the authority from denying an application for other reasons.

Additionally, the bill updates the language in Section 63-1-130(c) by changing the term "written" to "written or electronic," thereby allowing for more flexible communication methods between individuals and the licensing authority. The changes aim to enhance transparency in the licensing process while ensuring that individuals are informed of their standing based on criminal history prior to applying for licenses, certifications, or registrations. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the public welfare.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-1-130(b), 63-1-130, 63-1-130(c)