Bill H.588, introduced by Representative Birong, seeks to enhance the regulatory framework for various professions under the Office of Professional Regulation in Vermont. Key provisions include granting the Office explicit authority to rescind licenses and enforce actions against fraudulent license procurement. The bill mandates that all professional regulation board members be adults, modifies the foreign credential verification process, and introduces a limited academic dentist license for dental instructors at accredited programs. It also revises regulations for massage therapist establishments, eliminates the advisory committee on midwifery, alters midwife license renewal requirements, and updates the definition of funeral service practice to include new body disposal methods.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to unprofessional conduct, allowing for alternative disciplinary processes for professionals with substance use disorders, and changes reporting requirements for disciplinary actions by healthcare institutions. It updates licensing fees for dental professionals, establishes new rules for massage therapy establishments, and introduces a new category for unauthorized practice of massage under cannabis possession laws. The pharmacy section expands pharmacists' prescribing authority, including vaccinations for patients aged 18 and older, and modifies regulations for pharmacy technicians. The bill is designed to streamline regulatory processes and update practices to meet contemporary needs, taking effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-123, 3-128, 3-129a, 3-129b, 3-137, 26-662, 26-105, 13-2638, 26-85, 26-2023, 26-2042a, 26-1211