Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; relicensure after expiration of certain licenses; expand. Amends sec. 20954 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20954).
Impact
The bill establishes clear guidelines on license renewal, including the financial implications of late renewals which apply if a renewal application is submitted after the expiration date. Licensing fees vary depending on the role, with certain roles having additional fees if the renewal is postmarked late. Notably, medical first responders will not be charged a renewal fee, reflecting an acknowledgment of their critical role and potentially encouraging more individuals to enter the field. This amendment aims to ensure a consistent approach to licensure while also enforcing accountability for meeting continuing education requirements.
Summary
Senate Bill 706 aims to amend section 20954 of the Public Health Code, specifically addressing the licensure and relicensure process for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel in Michigan. The bill provides a framework for the renewal of licenses for various EMS roles, including medical first responders, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and instructors. It stipulates conditions under which an EMS personnel license may be renewed, including the payment of associated fees and the fulfillment of ongoing education requirements. This facilitates a streamlined process for EMS professionals to maintain their licensure in alignment with the evolving standards in the field.
Contention
One of the significant points of contention surrounding SB 706 is its impact on volunteer emergency medical services personnel. The bill proposes that volunteer EMS personnel, certified by their life support agency, will not have to pay renewal or late fees, which may encourage more individuals to volunteer in these roles. However, there may also be concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of volunteer EMS programs, particularly if there are uncertainties about funding and support. Additionally, the requirement for relicensure within ten years and the stipulation of possible exams could pose challenges for those with lapsed licenses seeking to return to EMS roles.
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; licensure of medical first responders and emergency medical technicians; allow at 17 years of age. Amends sec. 20950 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.20950). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5489'26
Health occupations: emergency medical services personnel; licensure of medical first responders and emergency medical technicians; allow at 17 years of age. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding sec. 20950a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5488'26
Health: licensing; relicensure and reregistration of certain temporary and limited licenses; provide for. Amends sec. 16201 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16201).
Health occupations: occupational therapists; occupational therapy licensure compact; enact. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding sec. 16188. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4104'25
Health occupations: occupational therapists; licensure process for occupational therapists; modify to incorporate occupational therapy licensure compact. Amends secs. 16345, 18301 & 18305 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16345 et seq.) & adds secs. 18303a & 18303b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4103'25