This bill amends and reenacts section 64-9-1 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, to authorize the Board of Respiratory Care to establish a legislative rule regarding the consideration of prior criminal convictions in the process of initial licensure determinations. The bill specifically references the legislative rule filed in the State Register on February 27, 2024, which was subsequently modified to address concerns from the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee and refiled on September 9, 2024. The new rule is designated as 30 CSR 10. The primary aim of this legislation is to provide clarity and guidance for the Board of Respiratory Care in evaluating applicants' prior criminal histories when making decisions about initial licensure. This change is intended to ensure that the licensure process is fair and consistent while also considering the implications of past criminal behavior on an individual's ability to practice in the field of respiratory care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 64-9-1