First Regular Session Seventy-fourth General Assembly STATE OF COLORADO REENGROSSED This Version Includes All Amendments Adopted in the House of Introduction LLS NO. 23-0840.01 Christy Chase x2008 SENATE BILL 23-167 Senate Committees House Committees Health & Human Services Appropriations A BILL FOR AN ACT C ONCERNING THE REGULATION OF CERTIFIED MIDWIVES BY THE STATE101 BOARD OF NURSING, AND, IN CONNECTION THEREWITH , MAKING 102 AN APPROPRIATION.103 Bill Summary (Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced and does not reflect any amendments that may be subsequently adopted. If this bill passes third reading in the house of introduction, a bill summary that applies to the reengrossed version of this bill will be available at http://leg.colorado.gov .) Starting July 1, 2024, the bill authorizes individuals who have a midwife certification from the American Midwifery Certification Board, pay the required fee, and submit to a criminal history record check to obtain a license from the state board of nursing (board) to practice as a certified midwife in the state. A certified midwife licensed by the board SENATE 3rd Reading Unamended April 14, 2023 SENATE Amended 2nd Reading April 13, 2023 SENATE SPONSORSHIP Winter F. and Will, Cutter, Exum, Fenberg, Fields, Ginal, Gonzales, Hansen, Hinrichsen, Kolker, Marchman, Priola HOUSE SPONSORSHIP Garcia and Lindsay, Shading denotes HOUSE amendment. Double underlining denotes SENATE amendment. Capital letters or bold & italic numbers indicate new material to be added to existing law. Dashes through the words or numbers indicate deletions from existing law. may apply for and obtain provisional and full prescriptive authority upon satisfying the requirements specified in the bill. Certified midwives are subject to regulation by the board to the same extent that the board regulates the practice of nursing, including grounds for discipline and disciplinary actions. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Colorado:1 SECTION 1. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-102, amend2 (1) as follows:3 12-255-102. Legislative declaration. (1) The general assembly4 hereby declares it to be the policy of this state that, in order to safeguard5 the life, health, property, and public welfare of the people of this state and6 in order to protect the people of this state from the unauthorized,7 unqualified, and improper application of services by individuals in the8 practice of nursing AND THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE , it is9 necessary that a proper regulatory authority be established. The general10 assembly further declares it to be the policy of this state to regulate the11 practice of nursing AND THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE through12 a state agency with the power to enforce this article 255.13 SECTION 2. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-104, amend14 (4.5) and (13); and add (3.2) and (7.5) as follows:15 12-255-104. Definitions. As used in this article 255, unless the16 context otherwise requires:17 (3.2) "C ERTIFIED MIDWIFE" MEANS AN INDIVIDUAL WHO MEETS18 THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, AS SPECIFIED19 IN THIS PART 1 AND BY THE AMERICAN MIDWIFERY CERTIFICATION20 B OARD, OR ITS SUCCESSOR ENTITY, AND WHO IS CURRENTLY LICENSED BY21 THE BOARD. ONLY AN INDIVIDUAL WHO HOLDS A LICENSE TO PRACTICE AS22 A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IN THIS STATE PURSUANT TO THIS PART 1 HAS THE23 167-2- RIGHT TO USE THE TITLE "CERTIFIED MIDWIFE" AND ITS ABBREVIATION1 "C.M."2 (4.5) (a) "Delegation of patient care" means aspects of patient care3 that are consistent with a plan of patient care prescribed by a licensed4 health care provider within the scope of the provider's practice and that5 may be delegated to a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse within6 the scope of the nurse's practice. "Delegation of patient care" includes7 aspects of patient care that may be delegated by a licensed health care8 provider within the scope of the provider's practice and within the9 provider's professional judgment to a licensed or an unlicensed health10 care provider within the scope of that provider's practice. Nothing in this11 subsection (4.5) limits or expands the scope of practice of any nurse OR12 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE licensed pursuant to this article 255.13 (b) For purposes of AS USED IN this subsection (4.5), "plan of14 patient care" means a written plan, verbal order, standing order, or15 protocol, whether patient specific or not, that authorizes specific or16 discretionary nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE action and that may include17 the administration of medication.18 (7.5) "P RACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE " MEANS THE19 PERFORMANCE OF SERVICES REQUIRING THE EDUCATION , TRAINING, AND20 SKILLS SPECIFIED BY THE AMERICAN MIDWIFERY CERTIFICATION BOARD,21 OR ITS SUCCESSOR ENTITY, FOR MIDWIFE CERTIFICATION FROM THAT22 ENTITY.23 (13) "Unauthorized practice", for purposes of this part 1, means:24 (a) The practice of practical nursing or the practice of professional25 nursing by any person INDIVIDUAL:26 (a) (I) Who has not been issued a license under this part 1;27 167 -3- (b) (II) Who is not practicing in this state pursuant to section1 24-60-3802; or2 (c) (III) Whose license has been suspended or revoked or has3 expired; OR4 (b) T HE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE BY ANY INDIVIDUAL5 WHO HAS NOT BEEN ISSUED A LICENSE UNDER THIS PART 1 OR WHOSE6 LICENSE HAS BEEN SUSPENDED OR REVOKED OR HAS EXPIRED .7 SECTION 3. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-105, amend8 (1)(a) introductory portion, (1)(a)(II) introductory portion, and9 (1)(a)(II)(D); and add (1)(a)(II.5) as follows:10 12-255-105. State board of nursing created - removal of board11 members - meetings of board. (1) (a) There is created the state board12 of nursing in the division, which is a type 1 entity, as defined in section13 24-1-105. The board consists of eleven TWELVE members who are14 residents of this state, appointed by the governor as follows:15 (II) Seven members of the board shall be WHO ARE licensed16 professional nurses, who are actively employed in their respective nursing17 professions, and WHO ARE licensed in this state, The professional nurse18 members shall AND WHO have been employed for at least three years in19 their respective categories. Members shall be as follows:20 (D) One member shall be WHO IS registered as an advanced21 practice registered nurse pursuant to section 12-255-111; EXCEPT THAT22 THE MEMBER APPOINTED PURSUANT TO THIS SUBSECTION (1)(a)(II)(D)23 MUST NOT BE A CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIFE ;24 (II.5) O NE MEMBER OF THE BOARD WHO IS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE25 OR AN ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE WHO IS A CERTIFIED26 NURSE MIDWIFE;27 167 -4- SECTION 4. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-107, amend1 (1)(b)(I)(A), (1)(b)(I)(B), and (1)(h) as follows:2 12-255-107. Powers and duties of the board - rules - definition.3 (1) The board has the following powers and duties:4 (b) (I) (A) To examine, license, certify, reactivate, and renew5 licenses or certifications of qualified applicants, and to grant to the6 applicants temporary licenses and permits, to engage in the practice of7 practical nursing and professional nursing, THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED8 MIDWIFE, or the practice of a nurse aide, as applicable, in this state within9 the limitations imposed by this article 255. Licenses and certifications10 issued pursuant to this article 255 are subject to the renewal, expiration,11 reinstatement, and delinquency fee provisions specified in section12 12-20-202 (1) and (2).13 (B) The director may increase fees to obtain or renew a14 professional nurse license, or AN advanced practice registered nurse15 authority, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSE under this part 1 consistent16 with section 12-30-105 (4) to fund the division's costs in administering17 and staffing the nurse-physician advisory task force for Colorado health18 care created in section 12-30-105 (1).19 (h) To investigate and conduct hearings upon charges for the20 discipline of nurses, CERTIFIED MIDWIVES, and nurse aides in accordance21 with article 4 of title 24 and section 12-20-403 and to impose disciplinary22 sanctions as provided in this article 255 and section 12-20-404;23 SECTION 5. In Colorado Revised Statutes, add 12-255-111.5 as24 follows:25 12-255-111.5. Requirements for certified midwife licensure -26 license by endorsement - questionnaire - fees. (1) O N AND AFTER JULY27 167 -5- 1, 2024, THE BOARD SHALL ISSUE A LICENSE TO ENGAGE IN THE PRACTICE1 AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE TO ANY APPLICANT WHO :2 (a) S UBMITS AN APPLICATION CONTAINING INFORMATION THE3 BOARD MAY PRESCRIBE;4 (b) S UBMITS PROOF SATISFACTORY TO THE BOARD , IN THE MANNER5 AND UPON THE FORMS THE BOARD MAY REQUIRE , TO SHOW THAT THE6 APPLICANT HAS OBTAINED AND MAINTAINS IN GOOD STANDING A MIDWIFE7 CERTIFICATION FROM THE AMERICAN MIDWIFERY CERTIFICATION BOARD8 OR ITS SUCCESSOR ENTITY;9 (c) P AYS THE REQUIRED FEE; AND10 (d) S UBMITS TO A CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK IN THE FORM11 AND MANNER AS DESCRIBED IN SUBSECTION (2) OF THIS SECTION.12 (2) (a) I N ADDITION TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF SUBSECTION (1) OF13 THIS SECTION, EACH APPLICANT MUST HAVE THE APPLICANT 'S14 FINGERPRINTS TAKEN BY A LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY OR ANY15 THIRD PARTY APPROVED BY THE COLORADO BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION16 FOR THE PURPOSE OF OBTAINING A FINGERPRINT-BASED CRIMINAL HISTORY17 RECORD CHECK. IF AN APPROVED THIRD PARTY TAKES THE APPLICANT 'S18 FINGERPRINTS, THE FINGERPRINTS MAY BE ELECTRONICALLY CAPTURED19 USING COLORADO BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION -APPROVED LIVESCAN20 EQUIPMENT. THIRD-PARTY VENDORS SHALL NOT KEEP THE APPLICANT 'S21 INFORMATION FOR MORE THAN THIRTY DAYS UNLESS REQUESTED TO DO SO22 BY THE APPLICANT. THE APPLICANT SHALL SUBMIT PAYMENT BY CERTIFIED23 CHECK OR MONEY ORDER FOR THE FINGERPRINTS AND FOR THE ACTUAL24 COSTS OF THE RECORD CHECK AT THE TIME THE FINGERPRINTS ARE25 SUBMITTED TO THE COLORADO BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION . UPON RECEIPT26 OF FINGERPRINTS AND RECEIPT OF THE PAYMENT FOR COSTS , THE27 167 -6- COLORADO BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION SHALL CONDUCT A STATE AND1 NATIONAL FINGERPRINT-BASED CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK2 UTILIZING RECORDS OF THE COLORADO BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION AND3 THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION AND SHALL FORWARD THE4 RESULTS OF THE CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK TO THE DIRECTOR .5 (b) W HEN THE RESULTS OF A FINGERPRINT -BASED CRIMINAL6 HISTORY RECORD CHECK OF AN APPLICANT PERFORMED PURSUANT TO THIS7 SUBSECTION (2) REVEAL A RECORD OF ARREST WITHOUT A DISPOSITION ,8 THE BOARD SHALL REQUIRE THAT APPLICANT TO SUBMIT TO A9 NAME-BASED JUDICIAL RECORD CHECK, AS DEFINED IN SECTION 22-2-119.310 (6)(d).11 (3) T HE BOARD MAY ISSUE A LICENSE BY ENDORSEMENT TO12 ENGAGE IN THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IN THIS STATE TO AN13 APPLICANT WHO SATISFIES THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE OCCUPATIONAL14 CREDENTIAL PORTABILITY PROGRAM .15 (4) (a) (I) T HE BOARD SHALL DESIGN A QUESTIONNAIRE TO BE SENT16 TO ALL LICENSEES WHO APPLY FOR LICENSE RENEWAL . EACH APPLICANT17 FOR LICENSE RENEWAL SHALL COMPLETE THE BOARD -DESIGNED18 QUESTIONNAIRE. THE PURPOSE OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE IS TO DETERMINE19 WHETHER A LICENSEE HAS ACTED IN VIOLATION OF THIS PART 1 OR HAS20 BEEN DISCIPLINED FOR ANY ACTION THAT MIGHT BE CONSIDERED A21 VIOLATION OF THIS PART 1 OR THAT MIGHT MAKE THE LICENSEE UNFIT TO22 PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WITH REASONABLE CARE AND SAFETY .23 T HE BOARD SHALL INCLUDE ON THE QUESTIONNAIRE A QUESTION24 REGARDING WHETHER THE LICENSEE HAS COMPLIED WITH SECTION25 12-30-111 AND IS IN COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 12-280-403 (2)(a).26 (II) I F AN APPLICANT FAILS TO ANSWER THE QUESTIONNAIRE27 167 -7- ACCURATELY, THE FAILURE CONSTITUTES GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINE UNDER1 SECTION 12-255-120 (1)(v).2 (III) T HE BOARD MAY INCLUDE THE COST OF DEVELOPING AND3 REVIEWING THE QUESTIONNAIRE IN THE FEE PAID UNDER SUBSECTION4 (1)(c) OF THIS SECTION.5 (IV) T HE BOARD MAY DENY AN APPLICATION FOR LICENSE6 RENEWAL THAT DOES NOT ACCOMPANY AN ACCURATELY COMPLETED7 QUESTIONNAIRE.8 (b) O N AND AFTER JULY 1, 2024, AS A CONDITION OF RENEWAL OF9 A LICENSE, EACH LICENSEE SHALL ATTEST THAT THE LICENSEE IS IN10 COMPLIANCE WITH SECTION 12-280-403 (2)(a) AND THAT THE LICENSEE IS11 AWARE OF THE PENALTIES FOR NONCOMPLIANCE WITH THAT SECTION .12 (5) A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WHO SATISFIES THE REQUIREMENTS OF13 SECTION 12-255-112 MAY BE GRANTED PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY AS A14 FUNCTION IN ADDITION TO THOSE FUNCTIONS DESCRIBED IN SECTION15 12-255-104 (7.5).16 SECTION 6. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-112, amend17 (1), (3), (4)(b) introductory portion, (4)(b)(I)(A), (4)(b)(I)(D),18 (4)(b)(I)(E), (4)(b)(III), (4)(b)(IV), (4)(d), (5), (6), (7), (9), (10), (11), and19 (12); repeal (4)(f); and add (4)(a.5) and (4)(b)(V) as follows:20 12-255-112. Prescriptive authority - advanced practice21 registered nurses - certified midwives - limits on prescriptions - rules22 - financial benefit for prescribing prohibited. (1) The board may23 authorize THE FOLLOWING LICENSEES TO PRESCRIBE CONTROLLED24 SUBSTANCES OR PRESCRIPTION DRUGS , AS THOSE TERMS ARE DEFINED IN25 SECTION 12-280-103:26 (a) An advanced practice registered nurse who is listed on the27 167 -8- advanced practice registry, WHO has a license in good standing without1 disciplinary sanctions issued pursuant to section 12-255-110, and WHO2 has fulfilled THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION AND requirements3 established by the board pursuant to this section; to prescribe controlled 4 substances or prescription drugs as defined in section 12-280-103. OR5 (b) A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WHO HAS A LICENSE ISSUED PURSUANT6 TO SECTION 12-255-111.5 THAT IS IN GOOD STANDING WITHOUT7 DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS AND WHO HAS FULFILLED THE REQUIREMENTS8 OF THIS SECTION AND REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY THE BOARD9 PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION.10 (3) (a) An advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED11 MIDWIFE may be granted authority to prescribe prescription drugs and12 controlled substances to provide treatment to clients within the role and13 population focus of the advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED14 MIDWIFE, AS APPLICABLE.15 (b) (I) An advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED16 MIDWIFE who has been granted authority to prescribe prescription drugs17 and controlled substances under this part 1 may advise the nurse's OR18 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S patients of their option to have the symptom or19 purpose for which a prescription is being issued included on the20 prescription order.21 (II) A nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S failure to advise a patient22 under subsection (3)(b)(I) of this section is neither:23 (A) Grounds for any disciplinary action against the nurse's OR24 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S professional license issued under this part 1; nor25 (B) Grounds for any civil action against a nurse OR CERTIFIED26 MIDWIFE in a negligence or tort action; nor27 167 -9- (C) Evidence in any civil action against a nurse OR CERTIFIED1 MIDWIFE.2 (4) (a.5) A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE APPLYING FOR PRESCRIPTIVE3 AUTHORITY SHALL PROVIDE EVIDENCE TO THE BOARD THAT THE CERTIFIED4 MIDWIFE HAS OBTAINED AND MAINTAINS :5 (I) A MIDWIFE CERTIFICATION IN GOOD STANDING FROM THE6 A MERICAN MIDWIFERY CERTIFICATION BOARD OR ITS SUCCESSOR ENTITY;7 AND8 (II) P ROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE AS REQUIRED BY SECTION9 12-255-113.10 (b) Upon satisfaction of the requirements set forth in subsection 11 (4)(a) of this section, The board may grant provisional prescriptive12 authority to an advanced practice registered nurse, UPON SATISFACTION OF13 THE REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH IN SUBSECTION (4)(a) OF THIS SECTION, OR14 TO A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, UPON SATISFACTION OF THE REQUIREMENTS SET15 FORTH IN SUBSECTION (4)(a.5) OF THIS SECTION. The provisional16 prescriptive authority that is granted is limited to those patients and17 medications appropriate to the advanced practice registered nurse's OR18 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S role and population focus. In order to retain19 provisional prescriptive authority and obtain and retain full prescriptive20 authority pursuant to this subsection (4) for patients and medications21 appropriate for the advanced practice registered nurse's OR CERTIFIED22 MIDWIFE'S role and population focus, an advanced practice registered23 nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall satisfy the following requirements:24 (I) (A) Once the provisional prescriptive authority is granted, the25 advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE must obtain26 seven hundred fifty hours of documented experience in a mutually27 167 -10- structured prescribing mentorship either with a physician or with an1 advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who has full2 prescriptive authority and experience in prescribing medications. The3 mentor must be practicing in Colorado and have education, training,4 experience, and an active practice that corresponds with the role and5 population focus of the advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED6 MIDWIFE.7 (D) Upon successful completion of the mentorship period, the8 mentor shall provide the mentor's signature and attestation to verify that9 the advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE has10 successfully completed the mentorship within the required period after the11 provisional prescriptive authority was granted.12 (E) If an advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED13 MIDWIFE with provisional prescriptive authority fails to complete the14 mentorship required by this subsection (4)(b)(I) within three years or15 otherwise fails to demonstrate competence as determined by the board,16 the advanced practice registered nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S17 provisional prescriptive authority expires for failure to comply with the18 statutory requirements.19 (III) The advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED20 MIDWIFE shall maintain professional liability insurance as required by21 section 12-255-113.22 (IV) The advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE shall maintain national certification, as specified in subsection24 (4)(a)(III) OR (4)(a.5)(I) of this section, unless the board grants an25 exception.26 (V) T HE CERTIFIED MIDWIFE MUST COMPLETE AT LEAST THREE27 167 -11- YEARS OF CLINICAL WORK EXPERIENCE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE .1 (d) In order to obtain provisional prescriptive authority and obtain2 and retain full prescriptive authority in this state, an advanced practice3 registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE from another state must meet4 the requirements of this section or substantially equivalent requirements,5 as determined by the board.6 (f) Once an advanced practice registered nurse obtains full 7 prescriptive authority pursuant to this subsection (4), the advanced8 practice registered nurse is not required to maintain or update an9 articulated plan as described in subsection (4)(b)(II) or (4)(c)(I) of this10 section.11 (5) An advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED12 MIDWIFE who obtains prescriptive authority pursuant to this section shall13 be assigned a specific identifier by the state board of nursing. This14 identifier shall be available to the Colorado medical board and the state15 board of pharmacy. The state board of nursing shall establish a16 mechanism to assure that the prescriptive authority of an advanced17 practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE may be readily verified.18 (6) An advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED19 MIDWIFE with prescriptive authority pursuant to this section is subject to20 the limitations on prescriptions specified in section 12-30-109.21 (7) (a) The scope of practice for an advanced practice registered22 nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE may be determined by the board in23 accordance with this part 1.24 (b) The board may consider information provided by nursing,25 medical, MIDWIFERY, or other health professional organizations,26 associations, or regulatory boards.27 167 -12- (c) (I) Prescriptive authority by an advanced practice registered1 nurse shall be OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IS limited to those patients2 appropriate to the nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S scope of practice.3 Prescriptive authority may be limited or withdrawn and the advanced4 practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE may be subject to further5 disciplinary action in accordance with this part 1 if the nurse OR6 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE has prescribed outside the nurse's OR CERTIFIED7 MIDWIFE'S scope of practice or for other than a therapeutic purpose.8 (II) Nothing in this section shall be construed to require a9 registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE to obtain prescriptive authority to10 deliver anesthesia care.11 (9) Nothing in this section shall be construed to permit dispensing12 or distribution, as defined in section 12-280-103 (14) and (15), by an13 advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, except for14 samples, under article 280 of this title 12 and the federal "Prescription15 Drug Marketing Act of 1987", Pub.L. 100-293, as amended.16 (10) An advanced practice registered nurse registered pursuant to17 section 12-255-111 OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE is not required to apply for18 or obtain prescriptive authority.19 (11) Nothing in this section shall limit LIMITS:20 (a) The practice of nursing by any nurse, including advanced21 practice registered nurses; OR22 (b) T HE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE BY ANY CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE.24 (12) An advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED25 MIDWIFE shall not accept any direct or indirect benefit from a26 pharmaceutical manufacturer or pharmaceutical representative for27 167 -13- prescribing a specific medication to a patient. For the purposes of this1 section, a direct or indirect benefit does not include a benefit offered to2 an advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE regardless3 of whether the specific medication is being prescribed.4 SECTION 7. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 12-255-1135 as follows:6 12-255-113. Professional liability insurance required -7 advanced practice registered nurses and certified midwives in8 independent practice - rules. (1) It is unlawful for any advanced9 practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE engaged in an10 independent practice of professional nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE11 to practice within the state of Colorado unless the advanced practice12 registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE purchases and maintains or is13 covered by professional liability insurance in an amount not less than five14 hundred thousand dollars per claim with an aggregate liability for all15 claims during the year of one million five hundred thousand dollars.16 (2) Professional liability insurance required by this section shall 17 MUST cover all acts within the scope of practice of an advanced practice18 registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE as defined DESCRIBED in this part19 1.20 (3) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (1) of this21 section, the board, by rule, may exempt or establish lesser liability22 insurance requirements for advanced practice registered nurses OR23 CERTIFIED MIDWIVES.24 (4) Nothing in this section shall be construed to confer liability on25 an employer for the acts of an advanced practice registered nurse OR A26 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE that are outside the scope of employment or to negate27 167 -14- the applicability of the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article1 10 of title 24.2 SECTION 8. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 12-255-1153 as follows:4 12-255-115. Volunteer licensure - fees - questionnaire. (1) The5 board may issue a license to a volunteer nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who6 meets the requirements set forth in this section.7 (2) A volunteer nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE license shall only8 be issued to an applicant who:9 (a) Currently holds a license to practice nursing, either as a10 practical nurse or as a professional nurse, OR TO PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED11 MIDWIFE, and the license is due to expire unless renewed; or12 (b) Is not currently engaged in the practice of nursing OR AS A13 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE either full-time or part-time and has, prior to ceasing14 practice, maintained full licensure in good standing in any state or15 territory of the United States.16 (3) (a) A volunteer nursing license shall permit the nurse to17 engage in volunteer nursing tasks within the scope of the nurse's license.18 (b) A VOLUNTEER CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSE SHALL PERMIT THE19 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE TO ENGAGE AS A VOLUNTEER IN THE PRACTICE AS A20 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE CERTIFIED MIDWIFE 'S21 LICENSE.22 (4) An applicant for a volunteer nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE23 license shall submit to the board an application containing the information24 the board may prescribe, a copy of the applicant's most recent nursing OR25 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE license, and a statement signed under penalty of26 perjury in which the applicant agrees not to receive compensation for any27 167 -15- nursing tasks OR TASKS AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE that are performed while1 in possession of the license.2 (5) A person who possesses a volunteer nursing OR CERTIFIED3 MIDWIFE license is immune from civil liability for actions performed4 within the scope of the nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE license unless it is5 established that injury or death was caused by gross negligence or the6 willful and wanton misconduct of the licensee. The immunity provided7 in this subsection (5) applies only to the licensee and does not affect the8 liability of any other individual or entity. Nothing in this subsection (5)9 limits the ability of the board to take disciplinary action against a licensee.10 (6) The fee for a volunteer nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE license,11 including assessments for legal defense, peer assistance, and other12 programs for which licenses are assessed, must not exceed fifty percent13 of the license renewal fee, including all assessments, established by the14 board for an active nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE license.15 (7) The board shall design a questionnaire to be sent to all16 volunteer nurses AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES who apply for license renewal.17 Each applicant for license renewal shall complete the board-designed18 questionnaire. The purpose of the questionnaire is to determine whether19 a licensee has acted in violation of this part 1 or has been disciplined for20 any action that might be considered a violation of this part 1 or might21 make the licensee unfit to practice nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE22 with reasonable care and safety. If an applicant fails to answer the23 questionnaire accurately, the failure constitutes grounds for discipline24 under section 12-255-120 (1)(v). The board may include the cost of25 developing and reviewing the questionnaire in the fee paid under26 subsection (6) of this section. The board may deny an application for27 167 -16- license renewal that does not accompany an accurately completed1 questionnaire.2 (8) (a) The board shall deny an application for the reactivation of3 a practical or professional nurse license for a volunteer nurse if the board4 determines that the nurse requesting reactivation has not actively5 volunteered as a nurse for the two-year period immediately preceding the6 filing of the application for license reactivation or has not otherwise7 demonstrated continued competency to return to the active practice of8 nursing in a manner approved by the board.9 (b) T HE BOARD SHALL DENY AN APPLICATION FOR THE10 REACTIVATION OF A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSE FOR A VOLUNTEER11 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IF THE BOARD DETERMINES THAT THE CERTIFIED12 MIDWIFE REQUESTING REACTIVATION HAS NOT ACTIVELY VOLUNTEERED13 AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE FOR THE TWO -YEAR PERIOD IMMEDIATELY14 PRECEDING THE FILING OF THE APPLICATION FOR LICENSE REACTIVATION15 OR HAS NOT OTHERWISE DEMONSTRATED CONTINUED COMPETENCY TO16 RETURN TO THE ACTIVE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IN A MANNER17 APPROVED BY THE BOARD.18 SECTION 9. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-117, amend19 (5) as follows:20 12-255-117. Temporary licenses and permits. (5) The board21 shall summarily withdraw a temporary license or permit issued pursuant22 to this section if the board determines that the TEMPORARY license OR23 PERMIT holder fails to meet the requirements of this section or section24 12-255-109, 12-255-110, 12-255-111.5, or 12-255-114. The holder of a25 temporary license or permit summarily withdrawn has the right to a26 hearing that shall be conducted pursuant to article 4 of title 24 and section27 167 -17- 12-20-403 by the board or by an administrative law judge at the board's1 discretion.2 SECTION 10. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-119, amend3 (1)(a), (3)(a)(I) introductory portion, (3)(a)(I)(B), (3)(a)(I)(C), (3)(a)(II),4 (3)(a)(III), (3)(b), (3)(c)(III), (4)(a), (4)(c)(III), (4)(c)(IV) introductory5 portion, (4)(c)(IV)(C), (4)(e), (6), (7), (8)(a), (8)(b), (8)(d), and (10) as6 follows:7 12-255-119. Disciplinary procedures of the board - inquiry8 and hearings panels - mental and physical examinations - definitions9 - rules. (1) (a) The president of the board shall divide the other ten10 members of the board into two panels of five members each. Members11 representing the three different categories of membership (licensed12 practical nurses, professional nurses, CERTIFIED MIDWIVES, and persons13 not licensed, employed, or in any way connected with, or with any14 financial interest in, any health-care facility, agency, or insurer) shall be15 divided between the two panels as equally as possible.16 (3) (a) (I) For the purposes of AS USED IN this section:17 (B) "License" includes licensure for a practical nurse or18 professional nurse, LICENSURE FOR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, and licensure19 for a psychiatric technician.20 (C) "Nurse", "licensee", or "respondent" includes a practical21 nurse, a professional nurse, A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, and a psychiatric22 technician as described in section 12-295-103 (4).23 (II) Written complaints relating to the conduct of a nurse licensed24 or authorized to practice nursing in this state OR RELATING TO THE25 CONDUCT OF A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSED OR AUTHORIZED TO26 PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IN THIS STATE may be made by any27 167 -18- person or may be initiated by an inquiry panel of the board on its own1 motion. U NLESS THE BOARD DETERMINES THE COMPLAINT TO BE WITHOUT2 MERIT OF INVESTIGATION, THE BOARD SHALL GIVE NOTICE OF THE3 COMPLAINT TO the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE complained of, shall be 4 given notice, unless the board determines the complaint to be without5 merit of investigation, by first-class mail, and SHALL STATE IN the notice6 shall state the nature of the complaint and shall state that the failure to7 respond in a materially factual and timely manner constitutes grounds for8 discipline. The nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE complained of shall be given9 thirty days to answer or explain in writing the matters described in such 10 THE complaint. Upon receipt of the nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S11 answer or at the conclusion of thirty days, whichever occurs first, the12 inquiry panel may take further action as set forth in subsection (3)(a)(III)13 of this section.14 (III) Upon receipt of the nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S answer15 or the conclusion of thirty days, the inquiry panel may conduct a further16 investigation that may be made by one or more members of the inquiry17 panel; IN THE CASE OF A COMPLAINT AGAINST A NURSE , one or more18 nurses who are not members of the board; IN THE CASE OF A COMPLAINT19 AGAINST A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, ONE OR MORE CERTIFIED MIDWIVES OR20 CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIVES WHO ARE NOT MEMBERS OF THE BOARD ; a21 member of the staff of the board; a professional investigator; or any other22 person or organization as the inquiry panel directs. The investigation shall 23 MUST be entirely informal.24 (b) The board shall cause an investigation to be made when the25 board is informed of:26 (I) Disciplinary action taken by an employer of a nurse OR27 167 -19- CERTIFIED MIDWIFE against the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE or1 resignation in lieu of a disciplinary action for conduct that constitutes2 grounds for discipline under section 12-255-120 or 12-295-111. The3 employer shall report the disciplinary action or resignation to the board.4 (II) An instance of a malpractice settlement or judgment against5 a nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE;6 (III) A nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who has not timely renewed7 his or her THE NURSE'S OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S license and the nurse OR8 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE is actively engaged in the practice of nursing OR AS9 A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.10 (c) On completion of an investigation, the inquiry panel shall11 make a finding that:12 (III) An instance of conduct occurred that does not warrant formal13 action by the board and that should be dismissed, but that indications of14 possible conduct by the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE were noted that15 could lead to serious consequences if not corrected. In such a case, the16 board shall send a confidential letter of concern in accordance with17 section 12-20-404 (5) to the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE against whom18 the complaint was made.19 (4) (a) All formal complaints shall be heard and determined in20 accordance with subsection (4)(b) of this section and section 24-4-105.21 Except as provided in subsection (1) of this section, all formal hearings22 shall be conducted by the hearings panel. The nurse OR CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE may be present in person or represented by counsel, or both, if24 so desired, to offer evidence and be heard in the nurse's OR CERTIFIED25 MIDWIFE'S own defense. At formal hearings, the witnesses shall be sworn26 and a complete record shall be made of all proceedings and testimony.27 167 -20- (c) (III) If the hearings panel finds the charges proven and orders1 that discipline be imposed, it shall also determine the extent of the2 discipline, which may be in the form of a letter of admonition regarding3 a license or suspension for a definite or indefinite period, revocation, or4 nonrenewal of a license to practice. In addition to any other discipline that5 may be imposed pursuant to this section, the hearings panel may impose6 a fine of no less than two hundred fifty dollars but no more than one7 thousand dollars per violation on any nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who8 violates this part 1 or any rule adopted pursuant to this part 1. The board9 shall adopt rules establishing a fine structure and the circumstances under10 which fines may be imposed.11 (IV) In determining appropriate disciplinary action, the hearings12 panel shall first consider sanctions that are necessary to protect the public.13 Only after the panel has considered such sanctions shall it consider and14 order requirements designed to rehabilitate the nurse OR CERTIFIED15 MIDWIFE. If discipline other than revocation of a license to practice is16 imposed, the hearings panel may also order that the nurse OR CERTIFIED17 MIDWIFE be granted probation and allowed to continue to practice during18 the period of the probation. The hearings panel may also include in any19 disciplinary order that allows the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE to continue20 to practice such conditions as the panel may deem appropriate to assure21 that the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE is physically, mentally, and22 otherwise qualified to practice nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE in23 accordance with generally accepted standards of practice, including any24 of the following:25 (C) The review or supervision of the respondent's practice of26 nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE as may be necessary to determine the27 167 -21- quality of the respondent's practice of nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE1 and to correct deficiencies therein IN THE RESPONDENT'S PRACTICE; or2 (e) The two-year waiting period specified in section 12-20-404 (3)3 applies to any person whose license to practice nursing, PRACTICE AS A4 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or PRACTICE any other health-care occupation is5 revoked by any other legally qualified board.6 (6) Upon the expiration of any term of suspension, the license7 shall be reinstated by the board if the board is furnished with evidence8 that the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE has complied with all terms of the9 suspension. If the evidence shows the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE has10 not complied with all terms of the suspension, the board may revoke or11 continue the suspension of the license at a hearing, notice of which and12 the procedure at which shall be as provided in this section.13 (7) In case any nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE is determined to be14 mentally incompetent or insane by a court of competent jurisdiction and15 a court enters, pursuant to part 3 or 4 of article 14 of title 15 or section16 27-65-110 (4) or 27-65-127, an order specifically finding that the mental17 incompetency or insanity is of such a degree that the nurse OR CERTIFIED18 MIDWIFE is incapable of continuing the practice of nursing OR AS A19 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, the board shall automatically suspend the nurse's OR20 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S license, and, notwithstanding any provision of this21 part 1 to the contrary, the suspension must continue until the nurse OR22 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE is found by the court to be competent to continue the23 practice of nursing OR THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE , AS24 APPLICABLE.25 (8) (a) If the board has reasonable cause to believe that a nurse is26 unable to practice nursing, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IS UNABLE TO27 167 -22- PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, with reasonable skill and safety to1 patients because of a condition described in section 12-255-120 (1)(i) or2 (1)(j) or section 12-295-111 (1)(i) or (1)(j), it THE BOARD may require the3 nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE to submit to mental or physical examinations4 by a physician or other licensed health-care professional designated by the5 board. If a nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE fails to submit to the mental or6 physical examinations, the board may suspend the nurse's OR CERTIFIED7 MIDWIFE'S license until the required examinations are conducted.8 (b) (I) Every nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall be deemed, by so9 practicing or by applying for renewal registration of the nurse's OR10 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S license, to have consented to submit to mental or11 physical examinations when directed in writing by the board. Further, the12 nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall be deemed to have waived all13 objections to the admissibility of the examining physician's or other14 licensed health-care professional's testimony or examination reports on15 the ground of privileged communication. Subject to applicable federal16 law, the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall be deemed to have waived all17 objections to the production of medical records to the board from18 health-care providers that may be necessary for the evaluations described19 in subsection (8)(a) of this section.20 (II) Nothing in this section shall prevent the PREVENTS A nurse OR21 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE from submitting to the board testimony or22 examination reports of a physician or other licensed health-care23 professional designated by the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE to a condition24 described in subsection (8)(a) of this section that may be considered by25 the board in conjunction with, but not in lieu of, testimony and26 examination reports of the physician or licensed health-care professional27 167 -23- designated by the board.1 (d) The board may require that a nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE2 submit medical records for review in conjunction with an examination3 made pursuant to subsection (8)(a) of this section; except that the records4 shall remain confidential, and shall be reviewed by the board MAY5 REVIEW THE RECORDS only to the extent necessary to conduct an6 investigation.7 (10) A physician or other licensed health-care professional who,8 at the request of the board, examines a nurse shall be OR CERTIFIED9 MIDWIFE IS immune from suit for damages by the nurse OR CERTIFIED10 MIDWIFE examined if the examining physician or examining licensed11 health-care professional conducted the examination and made findings or12 a diagnosis in good faith.13 SECTION 11. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-120, amend14 (1)(d), (1)(f), (1)(g), (1)(j)(I), (1)(j)(II), (1)(l), (1)(n), (1)(v), (1)(w),15 (1)(x), (1)(y), (1)(dd), (1)(ee), and (1)(ff) as follows:16 12-255-120. Grounds for discipline - definitions. (1) "Grounds17 for discipline", as used in this part 1, means any action by any person18 who:19 (d) Has had a license to practice nursing, PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED20 MIDWIFE, or PRACTICE any other health-care occupation suspended or21 revoked in any jurisdiction. A certified copy of the order of suspension or22 revocation shall be IS prima facie evidence of the suspension or23 revocation.24 (f) Has practiced nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE in a manner25 that fails to meet generally accepted standards for the nursing practice OF26 NURSING OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, AS APPLICABLE;27 167 -24- (g) Has violated any order or rule of the board pertaining to1 nursing practice, PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or licensure;2 (j) Has failed to:3 (I) Notify the board, as required by section 12-30-108 (1), of a4 physical illness, physical condition, or behavioral health, mental health,5 or substance use disorder that affects the person's ability to practice6 nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE with reasonable skill and safety to7 patients or that may endanger the health or safety of individuals under the8 person's care;9 (II) Act within the limitations created by a physical illness,10 physical condition, or behavioral health, mental health, or substance use11 disorder that renders the person unable to practice nursing OR AS A12 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE with reasonable skill and safety to patients or that may13 endanger the health or safety of individuals under the person's care; or14 (l) Has engaged in any conduct that would constitute a crime as15 defined in title 18 and that relates to the person's employment as a16 practical or professional nurse OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE. In conjunction17 with any disciplinary proceeding pertaining to this subsection (1)(l), the18 board shall be governed by the provisions of sections 12-20-202 (5) and19 24-5-101.20 (n) Has engaged in any of the following activities and practices:21 (I) Willful and repeated ordering or performance, without clinical22 justification, of demonstrably unnecessary laboratory tests or studies;23 (II) The administration, without clinical justification, of treatment24 that is demonstrably unnecessary;25 (III) The failure to obtain consultations or perform referrals when26 failing to do so is not consistent with the standard of care for the27 167 -25- profession; or1 (IV) Ordering or performing, without clinical justification, any2 service, X ray, or treatment that is contrary to recognized standards of the3 practice of nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE as interpreted by the4 board;5 (v) Has failed to accurately complete and submit to the board the6 designated questionnaire upon renewal of a license pursuant to section7 12-255-110 (3), 12-255-111.5 (4), 12-255-114 (3), or 12-255-115 (7);8 (w) (I) Represents himself or herself ONESELF to an individual or9 to the general public by use of any word or abbreviation to indicate or10 induce others to believe that he or she is a licensed practical or11 professional nurse unless the person is actually licensed as a practical12 nurse or professional nurse, respectively; or13 (II) Uses the title "nurse", "registered nurse", "R.N.", "practical14 nurse", "trained practical nurse", "licensed vocational nurse", "licensed15 practical nurse", or "L.P.N." unless the person is licensed by the board AS16 A PROFESSIONAL OR PRACTICAL NURSE , AS APPLICABLE;17 (III) R EPRESENTS ONESELF TO AN INDIVIDUAL OR TO THE GENERAL18 PUBLIC BY USE OF ANY WORD OR A BBREVIATION TO INDICATE OR INDUCE19 OTHERS TO BELIEVE THAT THE PERSON IS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE UNLESS20 THE PERSON IS ACTUALLY LICENSED AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE ; OR21 (IV) U SES THE TITLE "CERTIFIED MIDWIFE" OR THE ABBREVIATION22 "C.M." UNLESS THE PERSON IS LICENSED BY THE BOARD AS A CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE;24 (x) Practices as a practical or professional nurse OR AS A25 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE during a period when the person's license has been26 suspended, revoked, or placed on inactive status pursuant to section27 167 -26- 12-255-122;1 (y) Sells or fraudulently obtains or furnishes a license to practice2 as a nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE or aids or abets therein IN SUCH ACT;3 (dd) Has failed to notify the board, in writing and within thirty4 days after a judgment or settlement is entered, of a final judgment by a5 court of competent jurisdiction against the licensee for malpractice of6 nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE or a settlement by the licensee in7 response to charges or allegations of malpractice of nursing OR AS A8 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE and, in the case of a judgment, has failed to include9 in the notice the name of the court, the case number, and the names of all10 parties to the action;11 (ee) Fails to report to the board, within thirty days after an adverse12 action, that an adverse action has been taken against the person by another13 licensing agency in another state or jurisdiction, a peer review body, a14 health-care institution, a professional, or nursing, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE15 society or association, a governmental agency, a law enforcement agency,16 or a court for acts or conduct that would constitute grounds for17 disciplinary or adverse action as described in this article 255;18 (ff) Fails to report to the board, within thirty days, the surrender19 of a license or other authorization to practice nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED20 MIDWIFE in another state or jurisdiction or the surrender of membership21 on any nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE staff or in any nursing, CERTIFIED22 MIDWIFE, or professional association or society while under investigation23 by any of those authorities or bodies for acts or conduct similar to acts or24 conduct that would constitute grounds for action as described in this25 article 255;26 SECTION 12. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-121, amend27 167 -27- (1)(a), (1)(b)(I), (2), and (6)(a) as follows:1 12-255-121. Withholding or denial of license - hearing -2 definitions. (1) (a) The board is empowered to determine summarily3 whether:4 (I) An applicant for a license or a temporary license to practice as5 a nurse OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE possesses the qualifications required6 by this part 1; whether 7 (II) There is probable cause to believe that an applicant for a8 license or temporary license has done any of the acts set forth in section9 12-255-120 as grounds for discipline; or whether10 (III) The applicant for a license or temporary license has had a11 license to practice nursing, PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE , or12 PRACTICE any other health-care occupation revoked by any legally13 authorized board.14 (b) As used in this section:15 (I) "Applicant" includes a nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE seeking16 reinstatement or reactivation of a license pursuant to section 12-255-122,17 but does not include a renewal applicant.18 (2) (a) (I) If the board determines that an applicant does not19 possess the qualifications for licensure required by this part 1, that20 probable cause exists to believe that an applicant for a license or21 temporary license has done any of the acts set forth in section22 12-255-120, or that an applicant for a license or temporary license has had23 a nursing, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or other health-care occupation license24 revoked by another legally authorized board, the board may withhold or25 deny the applicant a license under this part 1.26 (II) The board may deny a license or temporary license to practice27 167 -28- as a nurse OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE to any applicant during the time the1 applicant's license is under suspension in another state.2 (III) The board may deny a license or may grant a license subject3 to terms of probation if the board determines that an applicant for a4 license has not actively practiced practical or professional nursing, HAS5 NOT ACTIVELY PRACTICED AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE , or has not otherwise6 maintained continued competency, as determined by the board, during the7 two years immediately preceding the application for licensure under this8 part 1.9 (b) If the board denies a license to an applicant pursuant to10 subsection (2)(a) of this section, the provisions of section 24-4-104 (9)11 apply. Upon the denial, the board shall provide the applicant with a12 statement in writing setting forth the following:13 (I) The basis of the board's determination that the applicant:14 (A) Does not possess the qualifications required by this part 1;15 (B) Has had a nursing, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or other health-care16 occupation license revoked or suspended by another legally authorized17 board; or18 (C) Has not actively practiced practical or professional nursing,19 HAS NOT ACTIVELY PRACTICED AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE , or has not20 maintained continued competency during the previous two years; or21 (II) The factual basis for probable cause that the applicant has22 done any of the acts set forth in section 12-255-120.23 (c) (I) If the board denies a NURSING license to an applicant on the24 grounds that the applicant's nursing or other health-care occupation25 license was revoked by another legally authorized board, the board may26 require the applicant to pass a written examination as provided in section27 167 -29- 12-255-109 as a prerequisite to licensure. The applicant shall not be1 allowed to take the written examination until at least two years after the2 revocation of the nursing or other health-care occupation license.3 (II) I F THE BOARD DENIES A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSE TO AN4 APPLICANT ON THE GROUNDS THAT THE APPLICANT 'S CERTIFIED MIDWIFE5 LICENSE WAS REVOKED BY ANOTHER LEGALLY AUTHORIZED BOARD , THE6 BOARD MAY REQUIRE THE APPLICANT TO OBTAIN RECERTIFICATION FROM7 THE AMERICAN MIDWIFERY CERTIFICATION BOARD, OR ITS SUCCESSOR8 ENTITY, AS A PREREQUISITE TO LICENSURE. THE APPLICANT SHALL NOT BE9 ALLOWED TO OBTAIN LICENSURE PURSUANT TO THIS SUBSECTION (2)(c)(II)10 UNTIL AT LEAST TWO YEARS AFTER THE APPLICANT 'S CERTIFIED MIDWIFE11 LICENSE WAS REVOKED.12 (6) (a) At the hearing, the applicant shall have HAS the burden of13 proof to show that:14 (I) The applicant possesses the qualifications required for15 licensure under this part 1;16 (II) The applicant's nursing, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or other17 health-care occupation license was not revoked by another legally18 authorized board; or19 (III) The applicant has actively practiced practical or professional20 nursing, HAS ACTIVELY PRACTICED AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE , or has21 maintained continued competency during the two years prior to22 application for a license under this part 1.23 SECTION 13. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-122, amend24 (1), (2), (3), (5), (6)(a), and (6)(b)(II) as follows:25 12-255-122. Inactive license status - reactivation. (1) A nurse26 OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE licensed pursuant to section 12-255-110,27 167 -30- 12-255-111.5, or 12-255-114 may request that the board place his or her1 THE NURSE'S OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S license on inactive status. The2 request shall be made in the form and manner designated by the board.3 (2) A nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE requesting inactive license4 status shall provide an affidavit or other document required by the board5 certifying that, immediately upon the conferral of inactive status, the6 nurse shall WILL not practice nursing, OR THE CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WILL7 NOT PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, in the state unless and until the8 nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S license is reactivated pursuant to9 subsection (6) of this section.10 (3) Upon receiving the documentation pursuant to subsection (2)11 of this section, the board shall approve a request for inactive license12 status. However, the board may deny the request if the board has probable13 cause to believe that the requesting nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE has14 committed any of the acts set forth in section 12-255-120.15 (5) A nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE with a license on inactive16 status is not authorized to practice nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE,17 AS APPLICABLE, in Colorado. Any nurse practicing nursing while his or 18 her THE NURSE'S license is inactive, shall be AND ANY CERTIFIED MIDWIFE19 PRACTICING AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WHILE THE CERTIFIED MIDWIFE 'S20 LICENSE IS INACTIVE, IS subject to disciplinary action pursuant to section21 12-255-119 and criminal penalties pursuant to section 12-255-125.22 (6) (a) A nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE with a license on inactive23 status who wishes to resume the practice of nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED24 MIDWIFE, AS APPLICABLE, shall file an application in the form and manner25 designated by the board and pay the license reactivation fees established26 pursuant to section 12-255-107. The board shall reactivate such license27 167 -31- unless subsection (6)(b) of this section applies.1 (b) The board shall deny an application for reactivation of an2 inactive license:3 (II) If the board determines that the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE4 requesting reactivation has not actively practiced nursing OR AS A5 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE in another state for the two-year period immediately6 preceding the filing of the request for reactivation or has not otherwise7 demonstrated continued competency to return to the active practice of8 nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE in a manner approved by the board.9 SECTION 14. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-124, amend10 (1), (3), and (4) as follows:11 12-255-124. Surrender of license. (1) Prior to the initiation of12 an investigation or hearing, any licensee or temporary license holder may13 surrender his or her THE INDIVIDUAL'S license to practice nursing OR AS14 A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.15 (3) The board shall not issue a license or temporary license or16 permit to a former licensee or temporary license or permit holder whose17 license has been surrendered unless the licensee meets all of the18 requirements of this part 1 for a new applicant, including, FOR19 APPLICANTS FOR A LICENSE, TEMPORARY LICENSE, OR PERMIT TO PRACTICE20 NURSING, the passing of an examination.21 (4) The surrender of a license in accordance with this section22 removes all rights and privileges to practice nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE, AS APPLICABLE, including renewal of a license.24 SECTION 15. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 12-255-12525 as follows:26 12-255-125. Unauthorized practice - penalties. (1) It is27 167 -32- unlawful for any person to practice as a practical or professional nurse OR1 AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE unless licensed to practice that profession.2 (2) Any person who practices or offers or attempts to practice3 practical or professional nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE without an4 active license issued under this part 1 is subject to penalties pursuant to5 section 12-20-407 (1)(a).6 SECTION 16. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 12-255-1267 as follows:8 12-255-126. Injunctive proceedings. The board may seek9 injunctive relief in accordance with section 12-20-406, but only to enjoin10 any person who does not possess a currently valid or active practical or11 professional nurse license, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSE, or nurse aide12 certification from committing any act declared to be unlawful or13 prohibited by this article 255.14 SECTION 17. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-127, amend15 (1)(b), (1)(c), (1)(d), (1)(e), (1)(f), (1)(g), (1)(p), (1)(q), (2), and (3) as16 follows:17 12-255-127. Exclusions. (1) This part 1 does not prohibit:18 (b) Domestic administration of family remedies or care of the sick19 by domestic servants, housekeepers, companions, or household aides of20 any type, whether employed regularly or because of an emergency of21 illness, but who shall not in any way assume to practice practical or22 professional nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE;23 (c) Nursing OR MIDWIFERY assistance in the case of an emergency;24 (d) The practice of nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE in this25 state by any legally qualified nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE of another state26 whose engagement requires the nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE to27 167 -33- accompany and care for a patient temporarily residing in this state, during1 the period of one engagement, not to exceed six months in length, if the2 person does not represent or hold himself or herself out as a practical or3 professional nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE licensed to practice in this state;4 (e) The practice of any nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE licensed in5 this state or another state or a territory of the United States who is6 employed by the United States government or any bureau, division, or7 agency thereof OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT while in the8 discharge of official duties;9 (f) The practice of nursing OR MIDWIFERY by students enrolled in10 an educational APPROVED EDUCATION program approved by the board OR11 MIDWIFERY EDUCATION PROGRAM when the practice is performed as part12 of an educational THE APPROVED EDUCATION program OR MIDWIFERY13 EDUCATION PROGRAM prior to the graduation of the student;14 (g) The practice of nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE by any15 nurse OR MIDWIFE WHO IS licensed in any other state, or any territory of16 the United States, or any other country AND IS enrolled in a baccalaureate17 or graduate program, when IF the practice is performed as a part of the18 program;19 (p) The administration of medical marijuana in a nonsmokeable20 form by a licensee LICENSED NURSE in a public school or nonpublic21 school pursuant to a policy adopted pursuant to section 22-1-119.322 (3)(d.5);23 (q) The training by a licensee LICENSED NURSE of school24 personnel or volunteers on the administration of medical marijuana in a25 nonsmokeable form in a public school or nonpublic school to a student26 with a valid medical marijuana recommendation pursuant to a policy27 167 -34- adopted pursuant to section 22-1-119.3 (3)(d.5).1 (2) This part 1 shall not be construed as applying to a person who2 nurses or cares for the sick in accordance with the practice or tenets of3 any church or religious denomination that teaches reliance upon spiritual4 means through prayer for healing, and who does not hold himself or5 herself out to the public to be a licensed practical or professional nurse OR6 A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.7 (3) Nothing in this part 1:8 (a) Prohibits any licensee from practicing practical or professional9 nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE independently for compensation upon10 a fee for services basis;11 (b) Prohibits or requires the direct reimbursement for nursing OR12 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE services and care through qualified governmental and13 insurance programs to persons duly licensed in accordance with this part14 1; or15 (c) Conveys to the practice of nursing OR THE PRACTICE AS A16 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE the performance of medical practice as regulated by17 article 240 of this title 12, OTHER THAN AS PERMITTED UNDER SECTION18 12-240-107 (1)(f)(I).19 SECTION 18. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 12-255-12820 as follows:21 12-255-128. Prescribing opiate antagonists. An advanced22 practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE with prescriptive23 authority pursuant to section 12-255-112 may prescribe or dispense an24 opiate antagonist in accordance with section 12-30-110.25 SECTION 19. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-130, amend26 (1), (2)(b), (3)(a) introductory portion, (3)(c), (4), and (6) as follows:27 167 -35- 12-255-130. Peer health assistance or alternative to discipline1 program - fund - rules. (1) As a condition of licensure and for the2 purpose of supporting a nursing peer health assistance program FOR3 NURSES OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES or a nurse AN alternative to discipline4 program FOR NURSES OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES , every applicant for an5 initial license or to reinstate a license and any person renewing a license6 issued pursuant to this part 1 shall pay to the administering entity7 designated pursuant to subsection (3)(c) of this section a fee in an amount8 set by the board, not to exceed twenty-five dollars per year; except that9 the board may adjust the amount each January 1 to reflect changes in the10 United States department of labor's bureau of labor statistics consumer11 price index, or its successor index, for Denver-Aurora-Lakewood for12 goods paid by urban consumers.13 (2) (b) Money in the fund shall be used to support a nursing peer14 health assistance program FOR NURSES AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES or nurse 15 AN alternative to discipline program FOR NURSES AND CERTIFIED16 MIDWIVES in providing assistance to licensees needing help in dealing17 with physical, emotional, psychiatric, or psychological problems or18 behavioral, mental health, or substance use disorders that may be19 detrimental to their ability to practice nursing OR TO PRACTICE AS A20 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.21 (3) (a) The board shall select one or more recognized peer health22 assistance organizations or nurse alternative to discipline programs as23 designated providers. For purposes of selecting designated providers, the24 board shall use a competitive bidding process that encourages25 participation from interested vendors. To be eligible for designation by26 the board pursuant to this section, a peer health assistance organization or27 167 -36- nurse alternative to discipline program shall:1 (c) The board shall designate an administering entity for a2 program established pursuant to this section. The entity shall MUST be a3 nonprofit private entity that is qualified under 26 U.S.C. sec. 501 (c)(3)4 of the federal "Internal Revenue Code of 1986", as amended, and shall be5 dedicated to providing support for charitable, benevolent, educational, or6 scientific purposes that are related to nursing OR MIDWIFERY, nursing OR7 MIDWIFERY education, nursing OR MIDWIFERY research and science, and8 other nursing OR MIDWIFERY charitable purposes.9 (4) Notwithstanding sections 12-255-119 and 24-4-104, the board10 may immediately suspend the license of any licensee who is referred to11 a peer health assistance program or nurse alternative to discipline12 program by the board and who fails to attend or to complete the program.13 If the licensee objects to the suspension, he or she THE LICENSEE may14 submit a written request to the board for a formal hearing on the15 suspension within ten days after receiving notice of the suspension, and16 the board shall grant the request. In the hearing, the licensee shall bear the17 burden of proving that his or her THE INDIVIDUAL'S license should not be18 suspended.19 (6) Nothing in this section shall be construed to create any liability20 of the board, members of the board, or the state of Colorado for the21 actions of the board in making awards to peer health assistance22 organizations or nurse alternative to discipline programs or in designating23 licensees to participate in the programs of such organizations. No civil24 action may be brought or maintained against the board, its members, or25 the state for an injury alleged to have been the result of an act or omission26 of a licensee participating in or referred to a program provided by a peer27 167 -37- health assistance organization or to a nurse AN alternative to discipline1 program. However, the state shall remain REMAINS liable under the2 provisions of the "Colorado Governmental Immunity Act", article 10 of3 title 24, if an injury alleged to have been the result of an act or omission4 of a licensee participating in or referred to a peer health assistance5 program or nurse alternative to discipline program occurred while such6 licensee was performing duties as an employee of the state.7 SECTION 20. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 12-255-1318 as follows:9 12-255-131. Delegation of nursing or midwifery tasks - rules.10 (1) Any licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or advanced practice11 registered nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE may delegate any task included12 in the nurse's OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S licensed scope of practice, subject13 to the requirements of this section. A licensed practical nurse, registered14 nurse, or advanced practice registered nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE may15 delegate nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE tasks to licensed, certified,16 registered, or unlicensed or unregulated assistive personnel. In no event17 may a registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE delegate to another person18 the authority to select medications if the person is not, independent of the19 delegation, authorized by law to select medications.20 (2) Delegated tasks shall MUST be within the area of responsibility21 of the delegating nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE and shall MUST not require22 any delegatee to exercise the judgment required of a nurse OR CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE.24 (3) No delegation shall be made without the delegating nurse OR25 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE making a determination that, in his or her THE26 LICENSEE'S professional judgment, the delegated task can be properly and27 167 -38- safely performed by the delegatee and that the delegation is1 commensurate with the patient's safety and welfare.2 (4) The delegating nurse shall be OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE IS solely3 responsible for determining the required degree of supervision the4 delegatee will need, after an evaluation of the appropriate factors, which5 shall include but ARE not be limited to the following:6 (a) The stability of the condition of the patient;7 (b) The training and ability of the delegatee;8 (c) The nature of the nursing OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE task being9 delegated; and10 (d) Whether the delegated task has a predictable outcome.11 (5) An employer of a nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE may establish12 policies, procedures, protocols, or standards of care that limit or prohibit13 delegations by nurses OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES in specified circumstances.14 (6) The board may promulgate rules pursuant to this section,15 including but not limited to standards on the assessment of the proficiency16 of the delegatee to perform delegated tasks, and standards for17 accountability of any nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who delegates nursing18 OF CERTIFIED MIDWIFE tasks. The rules shall be consistent with the19 provisions of part 3 of article 1.5 of title 25, section 25.5-10-204 (2)(j),20 and section 27-10.5-103 (2)(i).21 SECTION 21. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-255-135, amend22 (2) as follows:23 12-255-135. Confidential agreement to limit practice. (2) This24 section and section 12-30-108 do not apply to a nurse OR CERTIFIED25 MIDWIFE subject to discipline under section 12-255-120 (1)(i).26 SECTION 22. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-20-404, amend27 167 -39- (1)(d)(II)(J.5) and (3)(a)(II)(J) as follows:1 12-20-404. Disciplinary actions - regulator powers -2 disposition of fines - mistreatment of at-risk adult. (1) General3 disciplinary authority. If a regulator determines that an applicant,4 licensee, certificate holder, or registrant has committed an act or engaged5 in conduct that constitutes grounds for discipline or unprofessional6 conduct under a part or article of this title 12 governing the particular7 profession or occupation, the regulator may:8 (d) (II) A regulator is not authorized under this subsection (1)(d)9 to refuse to renew the license, certification, or registration of a licensee,10 certificate holder, or registrant regulated under the following:11 (J.5) Article 255 of this title 12 concerning nurses AND CERTIFIED12 MIDWIVES;13 (3) Waiting period after revocation or surrender. (a) (II) In14 addition, the waiting period specified in subsection (3)(a)(I) of this15 section applies when a person regulated under any of the following16 articles surrenders a license, certification, or registration to avoid17 discipline:18 (J) Article 255 of this title 12 concerning nurses, CERTIFIED19 MIDWIVES, and nurse aides;20 SECTION 23. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-20-406, amend21 (2)(b)(IX) as follows:22 12-20-406. Injunctive relief. (2) (b) Subsection (2)(a) of this23 section does not apply to the following:24 (IX) Article 255 of this title 12 concerning nurses, CERTIFIED25 MIDWIVES, and nurse aides;26 SECTION 24. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-20-407, amend27 167 -40- (1)(a)(V)(O), (1)(e) introductory portion, and (1)(e)(VII) as follows:1 12-20-407. Unauthorized practice of profession or occupation2 - penalties - exclusions. (1) (a) A person commits a class 2 misdemeanor3 and shall be punished as provided in section 18-1.3-501 if the person:4 (V) Practices or offers or attempts to practice any of the following5 professions or occupations without an active license, certification, or6 registration issued under the part or article of this title 12 governing the7 particular profession or occupation:8 (O) Practical or professional nursing OR PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED9 MIDWIFE, as regulated under article 255 of this title 12;10 (e) A person commits a class 6 felony and shall be punished as11 provided in section 18-1.3-401 if the person practices or offers or12 attempts to practice any of the following professions or occupations and13 intentionally and fraudulently represents oneself as a licensed, certified,14 or registered professional or practitioner issued pursuant to a part or15 article of this title 12 governing the particular profession or occupation:16 (VII) Professional nursing OR PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE,17 as regulated pursuant to article 255 of this title 12;18 SECTION 25. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-102, amend19 (3)(a)(XI) as follows:20 12-30-102. Medical transparency act of 2010 - disclosure of21 information about health-care providers - fines - rules - short title -22 legislative declaration - review of functions - repeal. (3) (a) As used23 in this section, "applicant" means a person applying for a new, active24 license, certification, or registration or to renew, reinstate, or reactivate25 an active license, certification, or registration to practice:26 (XI) Practical nursing, professional nursing, or advanced practice27 167 -41- registered nursing, OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE pursuant to article 255 of1 this title 12;2 SECTION 26. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-105, amend3 (1) introductory portion, (1)(b), (4), (5)(i), and (5)(j) as follows:4 12-30-105. Nurse-physician advisory task force for Colorado5 health care - creation - duties - definition - repeal. (1) There is hereby6 created, within the division, the nurse-physician advisory task force for7 Colorado health care, referred to in this section as "NPATCH". The8 purpose of the NPATCH is to promote public safety and improve health9 care in Colorado by supporting collaboration and communication between10 the practices PRACTICE of nursing, THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED11 MIDWIFE, and THE PRACTICE OF medicine. The NPATCH shall:12 (b) Address issues of mutual concern at the interface of the13 practices PRACTICE of nursing, THE PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE,14 and THE PRACTICE OF medicine;15 (4) The division shall staff the NPATCH. The division's costs for16 administering and staffing the NPATCH shall be funded by an increase17 in fees for professional and advanced practice registered nursing,18 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, and medical license renewal fees, as authorized in19 sections 12-240-130 and 12-255-107 (1)(b)(I), with fifty percent of the20 funding derived from the physician license renewal fees and fifty percent21 derived from the professional and advanced practice registered nursing22 AND CERTIFIED MIDWIFE LICENSE RENEWAL fees.23 (5) The NPATCH shall prioritize consideration of and make24 recommendations on the following topics:25 (i) Physician standards, process PROCESSES, and metrics to ensure26 appropriate consultation, collaboration, and referral regarding advanced27 167 -42- practice registered nurse AND CERTIFIED MIDWIFE prescriptive authority;1 (j) Prescribing issues regarding providers other than physicians,2 and advanced practice registered nurses, AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES;3 SECTION 27. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-106, amend4 (1) as follows:5 12-30-106. Health-care work force data collection. (1) The6 director of the division shall implement a system to collect health-care7 work force data from health-care professionals who are eligible for the8 Colorado health service corps pursuant to part 5 of article 1.5 of title 25,9 from practical and professional nurses AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES licensed10 pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of this title 12, and from pharmacists11 licensed pursuant to article 280 of this title 12, collectively referred to in12 this section as "health-care professionals". Each health-care professional13 shall submit the data as part of the initial licensure process and upon the14 renewal of the health-care professional's license. Neither an executive15 department nor a board in an executive department is responsible for16 verifying the data or disciplining a health-care professional for17 noncompliance with this section.18 SECTION 28. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-109, amend19 (4)(c) as follows:20 12-30-109. Prescriptions - limitations - definition - rules.21 (4) As used in this section, "prescriber" means:22 (c) An advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE23 with prescriptive authority pursuant to section 12-255-112;24 SECTION 29. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-110, amend25 (7)(h)(II) as follows:26 12-30-110. Prescribing or dispensing opiate antagonists -27 167 -43- authorized recipients - definitions. (7) As used in this section:1 (h) "Prescriber" means:2 (II) An advanced practice registered nurse, as defined in section3 12-255-104 (1), OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, AS DEFINED IN SECTION4 12-255-104 (3.2), with prescriptive authority pursuant to section5 12-255-112; or6 SECTION 30. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-111, amend7 (4)(a)(III) as follows:8 12-30-111. Electronic prescribing of controlled substances -9 exceptions - rules - definitions. (4) As used in this section:10 (a) "Prescriber" means:11 (III) An advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE12 with prescriptive authority pursuant to section 12-255-112;13 SECTION 31. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-114, amend14 (2) as follows:15 12-30-114. Demonstrated competency - opiate prescribers -16 rules - definition. (2) For the purposes of this section, "licensed17 health-care provider" includes ANY OF THE FOLLOWING PROVIDERS WHO18 ARE LICENSED PURSUANT TO THIS TITLE 12:19 (a) A physician;20 (b) A physician assistant;21 (c) A podiatrist;22 (d) A dentist;23 (e) A N advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE24 with prescriptive authority;25 (f) A N optometrist; and26 (g) A veterinarian. licensed pursuant to this title 12. 27 167 -44- SECTION 32. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-201, amend1 (1) introductory portion, (2)(b), and (3) as follows:2 12-30-201. Legislative declaration. (1) The general assembly3 hereby finds, determines, and declares that the Colorado medical board4 created in article 240 of this title 12 and the state board of nursing created5 in article 255 of this title 12 act for the state in their sovereign capacity to6 govern licensure, discipline, and professional review of persons licensed7 to practice medicine, persons licensed as physician assistants, and8 advanced practice registered nurses, AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES ,9 respectively, in this state. The general assembly further finds, determines,10 and declares that:11 (2) The general assembly recognizes that:12 (b) Many patients lack the knowledge, experience, or education13 to properly evaluate the quality of medical, or nursing, OR CERTIFIED14 MIDWIFE practice or the professional conduct of persons licensed to15 practice medicine, persons licensed as physician assistants, and advanced16 practice registered nurses, AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES; and17 (3) The general assembly recognizes that, in the proper exercise18 of their authority and responsibilities under this part 2, the Colorado19 medical board and the state board of nursing must, to some extent, replace20 competition with regulation, and that the replacement of competition by21 regulation, particularly with regard to persons licensed under article 24022 of this title 12, or to advanced practice registered nurses, OR TO CERTIFIED23 MIDWIVES, is related to a legitimate state interest in the protection of the24 health, safety, and welfare of the people of this state.25 SECTION 33. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-202, amend26 (7); and add (2.5) as follows:27 167 -45- 12-30-202. Definitions. As used in this part 2, unless the context1 otherwise requires:2 (2.5) "C ERTIFIED MIDWIFE" HAS THE SAME MEANING AS SET FORTH3 IN SECTION 12-255-104 (3.2).4 (7) "Professional review committee" means any committee5 authorized under this part 2 to review and evaluate the competence of,6 professional conduct of, or the quality and appropriateness of patient care7 provided by any person licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or an8 advanced practice registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE .9 "Professional review committee" includes a governing board, a hearing10 panel appointed by a governing board to conduct a hearing under section11 12-30-204 (8)(a), and an independent third party designated by a12 governing board under section 12-30-204 (9)(b).13 SECTION 34. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-203, amend14 (1)(a) and (2) as follows:15 12-30-203. Use of professional review committees. (1) (a) The16 general assembly recognizes that:17 (I) The medical board and the nursing board, while assuming and18 retaining ultimate authority for licensure and discipline in accordance19 with article 240 of this title 12 and part 1 of article 255 of this title 12,20 respectively, and in accordance with this part 2, cannot practically and21 economically assume responsibility over every single allegation or22 instance of purported deviation from the standards of quality for the23 practice of medicine, or THE PRACTICE OF nursing, OR THE PRACTICE AS24 A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE; from the standards of professional conduct; or from25 the standards of appropriate care; and26 (II) An attempt to exercise this oversight would result in27 167 -46- extraordinary delays in the determination of the legitimacy of the1 allegations and would result in the inappropriate and unequal exercise of2 their authority to license and discipline persons licensed under article 2403 of this title 12, or advanced practice registered nurses, OR CERTIFIED4 MIDWIVES.5 (2) Persons licensed under article 240 of this title 12, and6 advanced practice registered nurses, AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES are7 encouraged to serve upon professional review committees when called to8 do so and to study and review in an objectively reasonable manner the9 professional conduct of persons licensed under article 240 of this title 12,10 or advanced practice registered nurses, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES, including11 the competence of, professional conduct of, or the quality and12 appropriateness of patient care provided by those persons.13 SECTION 35. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-204, amend14 (1), (3), (5)(d), (5)(f), (5)(g), (5)(h), (5)(k), (5)(l), (5)(n), (7)(a), (8)15 introductory portion, (8)(a)(I), (9)(a), (11)(b)(II), and (11)(b)(VII); and16 add (5)(d.5) as follows:17 12-30-204. Establishment of professional review committees18 - function - rules. (1) A professional review committee may be19 established pursuant to this section to review and evaluate the competence20 of, the quality and appropriateness of patient care provided by, or the21 professional conduct of any person licensed under article 240 of this title22 12, or any advanced practice registered nurse, OR ANY CERTIFIED23 MIDWIFE.24 (3) (a) A professional review committee that is reviewing the25 competence of, the quality and appropriateness of patient care provided26 by, or the professional conduct of an advanced practice registered nurse27 167 -47- must either:1 (a) (I) Have, as a voting member, at least one advanced practice2 registered nurse with a scope of practice similar to that of the person who3 is the subject of the review; or4 (b) (II) Engage, to perform an independent review as appropriate,5 an independent person who is an advanced practice registered nurse with6 a scope of practice similar to that of the person who is the subject of the7 review. The person conducting the independent review must be a person8 who was not previously involved in the review.9 (b) A PROFESSIONAL REVIEW COMMITTEE THAT IS REVIEWING THE10 COMPETENCE OF, THE QUALITY AND APPROPRIATENESS OF PATIENT CARE11 PROVIDED BY, OR THE PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT OF A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE12 MUST EITHER:13 (I) H AVE, AS A VOTING MEMBER , AT LEAST ONE CERTIFIED14 MIDWIFE OR ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE WITH A SCOPE OF15 PRACTICE SIMILAR TO THAT OF THE PERSON WHO IS THE SUBJECT OF THE16 REVIEW; OR17 (II) E NGAGE, TO PERFORM AN INDEPENDENT REVIEW AS18 APPROPRIATE, AN INDEPENDENT PERSON WHO IS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE19 WITH A SCOPE OF PRACTICE SIMILAR TO THAT OF THE PERSON WHO IS THE20 SUBJECT OF THE REVIEW. THE PERSON CONDUCTING THE INDEPENDENT21 REVIEW MUST BE A PERSON WHO WAS NOT PREVIOUSLY INVOLVED IN THE22 REVIEW.23 (5) A professional review committee established by any of the24 following authorized entities is an approved professional review25 committee under this part 2 if it operates in compliance with written26 bylaws, policies, or procedures that are in compliance with this part 2 and27 167 -48- that have been approved by the authorized entity's governing board and1 if it is registered with the division in accordance with section 12-30-206:2 (d) A society or association of advanced practice registered nurses3 who WHOSE MEMBERS reside in this state, if the advanced practice4 registered nurse whose services are the subject of the review is a member5 of the society or association;6 (d.5) A SOCIETY OR ASSOCIATION OF CERTIFIED MIDWIVES WHOSE7 MEMBERS RESIDE IN THIS STATE , IF THE CERTIFIED MIDWIFE WHOSE8 SERVICES ARE THE SUBJECT OF THE REVIEW IS A MEMBER OF THE SOCIETY9 OR ASSOCIATION;10 (f) A society or association of advanced practice registered nurses11 who OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES WHOSE MEMBERS practice in a specified12 nursing OR MIDWIFERY role and population focus, as defined by the13 nursing board, which society or association has been designated by the14 nursing board as the specific nursing OR MIDWIFERY society or association15 representative of those advanced practice registered nurses OR CERTIFIED16 MIDWIVES practicing in that nursing OR MIDWIFERY role and population17 focus, if the advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE18 whose services are the subject of the review is a member of the19 designated nursing OR MIDWIFERY society or association;20 (g) An individual practice association or a preferred provider21 organization consisting of persons licensed under article 240 of this title22 12, or of advanced practice registered nurses, OR OF CERTIFIED MIDWIVES23 or a medical group that predominantly serves members of a health24 maintenance organization licensed pursuant to parts 1 and 4 of article 1625 of title 10. A professional review committee established pursuant to this26 subsection (5)(g) has jurisdiction to review persons licensed under article27 167 -49- 240 of this title 12, or advanced practice registered nurses, OR CERTIFIED1 MIDWIVES only if the persons licensed under said article, or the advanced2 practice registered nurses, OR THE CERTIFIED MIDWIVES are members of3 the association or organization creating and authorizing that committee;4 except that the professional review committee may review the care5 provided to a particular patient referred by a member of the association6 or organization to another person who is not a member of the association7 or organization and is licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or is an8 advanced practice registered nurse, OR IS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.9 (h) A corporation authorized pursuant to article 3 of title 10 to10 insure persons licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or advanced11 practice registered nurses, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES or any other12 organization authorized to insure such persons in this state when13 designated by the medical board or nursing board under subsection (6) of14 this section;15 (k) (I) A nonprofit corporation or association consisting of16 representatives from a statewide professional society and a statewide17 hospital association. The association must consist of persons licensed18 under article 240 of this title 12, or advanced practice registered nurses,19 OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES, AS APPLICABLE, AND hospital administrators and20 hospital trustees, with a majority of the representatives being persons21 licensed under article 240 of this title 12 SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING22 REQUIREMENTS:23 (A) When the subject of the investigation is a person licensed24 under article 240 of this title 12, and A MAJORITY OF THE25 REPRESENTATIVES MUST BE PERSONS LICENSED UNDER ARTICLE 240 OF26 THIS TITLE 12;27 167 -50- (B) WHEN THE SUBJECT OF THE INVESTIGATION IS AN ADVANCED1 PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE, at least one of the representatives being2 MUST BE an advanced practice registered nurse; when the subject of the3 investigation is an advanced practice registered nurse. AND4 (C) W HEN THE SUBJECT OF THE INVESTIGATION IS A CERTIFIED5 MIDWIFE, AT LEAST ONE OF THE REPRESENTATIVES MUST BE A CERTIFIED6 MIDWIFE.7 (II) The association may establish, or contract for, one or more8 professional review committees to review the care by hospital staff9 personnel who are licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or are10 advanced practice registered nurses, OR ARE CERTIFIED MIDWIVES, with11 priority given to small rural hospital staffs. These professional review12 services must be available statewide on a fee-for-service basis to licensed13 or certified hospitals at the joint request of the governing board and the14 medical, or nursing, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE staff of the hospital or at the15 sole request of the governing board of the hospital. If a member being16 reviewed specializes in a generally recognized specialty of medicine, or17 nursing, OR MIDWIFERY, at least one of the health-care providers on the18 professional review committee must be a person who is licensed under19 article 240 of this title 12, or is an advanced practice registered nurse, OR20 IS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE and who practices such specialty. 21 (II) (III) For purposes of the introductory portion to this22 subsection (5) and this subsection (5)(k), the bylaws, policies, or23 procedures must be in compliance with this part 2 and approved by the24 nonprofit corporation or association.25 (l) The medical, or nursing, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE staff of an26 ambulatory surgical center licensed pursuant to part 1 of article 3 of title27 167 -51- 25;1 (n) A provider network that is organized pursuant to part 3 of2 article 18 of title 6 and includes persons licensed under article 240 of this3 title 12, or advanced practice registered nurses, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES;4 (7) (a) A professional review committee acting pursuant to this5 part 2 may investigate or cause to be investigated:6 (I) The qualifications and competence of any person licensed7 under article 240 of this title 12, or any advanced practice registered8 nurse, OR ANY CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who seeks to subject himself or herself 9 THEMSELVES to the authority of any authorized entity; or10 (II) The quality or appropriateness of patient care rendered by, or11 the professional conduct of, any person licensed under article 240 of this12 title 12, or any advanced practice registered nurse, OR ANY CERTIFIED13 MIDWIFE who is subject to the authority of the authorized entity.14 (8) The written bylaws, policies, or procedures of any professional15 review committee for persons licensed under article 240 of this title 12,16 or advanced practice registered nurses, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES must17 provide for at least the following:18 (a) (I) Except as provided in subsection (8)(a)(II) of this section,19 if the findings of any investigation indicate that a person licensed under20 article 240 of this title 12, or an advanced practice registered nurse, OR A21 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who is the subject of the investigation is lacking in22 qualifications or competency, has provided substandard or inappropriate23 patient care, or has exhibited inappropriate professional conduct and the24 professional review committee takes or recommends an action to25 adversely affect the person's membership, affiliation, or privileges with26 the authorized entity, the professional review committee shall hold a27 167 -52- hearing to consider the findings and recommendations unless the person1 waives, in writing, the right to a hearing or is given notice of a hearing2 and fails to appear.3 (9) (a) All governing boards shall adopt written bylaws, policies,4 or procedures under which a person who is licensed under article 240 of5 this title 12, or is an advanced practice registered nurse, OR IS A CERTIFIED6 MIDWIFE and who is the subject of an adverse recommendation by a7 professional review committee may appeal to the governing board8 following a hearing in accordance with subsection (8) of this section. The9 bylaws, policies, or procedures must provide that the person be given10 reasonable notice of his or her THE PERSON'S right to appeal and, unless11 waived by the person, has the right to appear before the governing board,12 to be represented by legal counsel, and to offer the argument on the13 record that the person deems appropriate.14 (11) (b) Subject to subsection (14) of this section, the records are15 subject to subpoena and available for use:16 (II) By a person licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or an17 advanced practice registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE in a suit18 seeking judicial review of an action by the governing board;19 (VII) By the nursing board within the scope of its authority over20 advanced practice registered nurses AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES.21 SECTION 36. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-205, amend22 (1) as follows:23 12-30-205. Hospital professional review committees. (1) The24 quality and appropriateness of patient care rendered by persons licensed25 under article 240 of this title 12, advanced practice registered nurses,26 CERTIFIED MIDWIVES, and other licensed health-care professionals so27 167 -53- influence the total quality of patient care that a review of care provided1 in a hospital is ineffective without concomitantly reviewing the overall2 competence of, professional conduct of, or the quality and3 appropriateness of care rendered by these persons.4 SECTION 37. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-206, amend5 (1), (2) introductory portion, (2)(b)(II) introductory portion, and (3)(a) as6 follows:7 12-30-206. Governing boards to register with division - annual8 reports - aggregation and publication of data - definition - rules.9 (1) As used in this section, "adversely affecting" has the same meaning10 as set forth in 45 CFR 60.3; except that it does not include a11 precautionary suspension or any professional review action affecting, for12 a period of thirty or fewer days, a person licensed under article 240 of this13 title 12, or an advanced practice registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED14 MIDWIFE.15 (2) Each governing board that establishes or uses one or more16 professional review committees to review the practice of persons licensed17 under article 240 of this title 12, or of advanced practice registered18 nurses, OR OF CERTIFIED MIDWIVES shall:19 (b) In addition to any other state or federal reporting requirements:20 (II) Report annually to the nursing board, in a form satisfactory to21 the nursing board, the number of final professional review actions in each22 of the following categories relating to advanced practice registered nurses23 AND CERTIFIED MIDWIVES:24 (3) (a) The division shall publish the data provided pursuant to25 subsections (2)(b) and (2)(c) of this section in aggregate form and without26 individually identifiable information concerning the governing board, the27 167 -54- authorized entity, or any person who was subject to review and is licensed1 under article 240 of this title 12, or is an advanced practice registered2 nurse, OR IS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.3 SECTION 38. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-207, amend4 (1), (2) introductory portion, and (2)(d) as follows:5 12-30-207. Immunity from liability. (1) A member of a6 professional review committee, a governing board, or any committee or7 third party designated by the governing board under section 12-30-2048 (9)(b); and any person serving on the staff of that committee, board,9 panel, or third party; a witness or consultant before a professional review10 committee; and any person who files a complaint or otherwise11 participates in the professional review process is immune from suit and12 liability for damages in any civil or criminal action, including antitrust13 actions, brought by a person licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or14 an advanced practice registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who is the15 subject of the review by the professional review committee unless, in16 connection with the professional review process, the person provided17 false information and knew that the information was false.18 (2) The governing board and the authorized entity that has19 established a professional review committee pursuant to section20 12-30-204 is immune from suit and liability for damages in any civil or21 criminal action, including antitrust actions, brought by a person licensed22 under article 240 of this title 12, or an advanced practice registered nurse,23 OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who is the subject of the review by such24 professional review committee if the professional review action was taken25 within the scope of the professional review process and was taken:26 (d) In accordance with procedures that, under the circumstances,27 167 -55- were fair to the person licensed under article 240 of this title 12, or the1 advanced practice registered nurse, OR THE CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.2 SECTION 39. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-30-208, amend3 (3)(b)(I), (3)(c) introductory portion, and (3)(c)(V) as follows:4 12-30-208. Conformance with federal law and regulation -5 legislative declaration - rules - limitations on liability - definition.6 (3) (b) (I) Notwithstanding subsection (3)(a) of this section, nothing in7 this section relieves an authorized entity that is a health-care facility8 licensed or certified pursuant to part 1 of article 3 of title 25 or certified9 pursuant to section 25-1.5-103 (1)(a)(II) of liability to an injured person10 or wrongful death claimant for the facility's independent negligence in the11 credentialing or privileging process for a person licensed under article12 240 of this title 12, or an advanced practice registered nurse, OR A13 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who provided health-care services for the injured or14 deceased person at the facility. For purposes of this subsection (3), the15 facility's participation in the credentialing process or the privileging16 process does not constitute the corporate practice of medicine.17 (c) For the purposes of AS USED IN this subsection (3), unless the18 context otherwise requires, "professional review action" means an action19 or recommendation of a professional review committee that is taken or20 made in the conduct of professional review activity and that is based on21 the quality and appropriateness of patient care provided by, or the22 competence or professional conduct of, an individual person licensed23 under article 240 of this title 12, or an advanced practice registered nurse,24 OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, which action affects or may affect adversely the25 person's clinical privileges of or membership in an authorized entity.26 "Professional review action" includes a formal decision by the27 167 -56- professional review committee not to take an action or make a1 recommendation as provided in this subsection (3)(c) and also includes2 professional review activities relating to a professional review action. An3 action is not based upon the competence or professional conduct of a4 person if the action is primarily based on:5 (V) Any other matter that does not relate to the quality and6 appropriateness of patient care provided by, or the competence or7 professional conduct of, a person licensed under article 240 of this title8 12, or an advanced practice registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.9 SECTION 40. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-225-101, amend10 (1)(b)(I), (1)(b)(II), and (2)(c) as follows:11 12-225-101. Scope of article - exemptions - legislative12 declaration. (1) (b) (I) A person who is a certified nurse-midwife13 authorized pursuant to section 12-255-111, A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE14 AUTHORIZED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12-255-111.5, or a physician as15 provided in article 240 of this title 12 shall not simultaneously be so16 licensed and also be registered under this article 225. A physician, or 17 certified nurse-midwife, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who holds a license in18 good standing may relinquish the license and subsequently be registered19 under this article 225.20 (II) A direct-entry midwife shall not represent himself or herself 21 ONESELF as a nurse-midwife, or certified nurse-midwife, OR CERTIFIED22 MIDWIFE.23 24 (2) Nothing in this article 225 shall be construed to prohibit, or to25 require registration under this article 225, with regard to:26 (c) The rendering of services by certified nurse-midwives OR27 167 -57- CERTIFIED MIDWIVES properly licensed and practicing in accordance with1 the provisions of part 1 of article 255 of this title 12; or2 SECTION 41. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-225-106, amend3 (5)(a)(III)(C) and (5)(a)(III)(F) as follows:4 12-225-106. Prohibited acts - practice standards - informed5 consent - emergency plan - risk assessment - referral - rules. (5) (a) A6 direct-entry midwife shall keep appropriate records of midwifery-related7 activity, including but not limited to the following:8 (III) Before accepting a client for care, the direct-entry midwife9 shall obtain the client's informed consent, which shall be evidenced by a10 written statement in a form prescribed by the director and signed by both11 the direct-entry midwife and the client. The form shall certify that full12 disclosure has been made and acknowledged by the client as to each of13 the following items, with the client's acknowledgment evidenced by a14 separate signature or initials adjacent to each item in addition to the15 client's signature at the end of the form:16 (C) A description of the available alternatives to direct-entry17 midwifery care, including a statement that the client understands she THE18 CLIENT is not retaining a certified nurse midwife, or a nurse midwife, OR19 A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE;20 (F) A statement informing the client that, if subsequent care is21 required resulting from the acts or omissions of the direct-entry midwife,22 any physician, nurse, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, prehospital emergency23 personnel, and health-care institution rendering subsequent care shall 24 WILL be held only to a standard of gross negligence or willful and wanton25 conduct;26 SECTION 42. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-225-112, amend27 167 -58- (1) as follows:1 12-225-112. Assumption of risk - no vicarious liability -2 professional liability insurance required. (1) It is the policy of this3 state that registrants shall be ARE liable for their acts or omissions in the4 performance of the services that they provide, and that no licensed5 physician, nurse, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, prehospital emergency medical6 personnel, or health-care institution shall be IS liable for any act or7 omission resulting from the administration of services by any registrant.8 This subsection (1) does not relieve any physician, nurse, CERTIFIED9 MIDWIFE, prehospital emergency personnel, or health-care institution from10 liability for any willful and wanton act or omission or any act or omission11 constituting gross negligence, or under circumstances where a registrant12 has a business or supervised relationship with the physician, nurse,13 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, prehospital emergency personnel, or health-care14 institution. A physician, nurse, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, prehospital15 emergency personnel, or health-care institution may provide consultation16 or education to the registrant without establishing a business or17 supervisory relationship, and is encouraged to accept referrals from18 registrants pursuant to this article 225.19 SECTION 43. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-240-107, amend20 (1) introductory portion, (1)(f)(I), (3)(j), and (3)(s) as follows:21 12-240-107. Practice of medicine defined - exemptions from22 licensing requirements - unauthorized practice by physician23 assistants and anesthesiologist assistants - penalties - definitions -24 rules - repeal. (1) For the purpose of AS USED IN this article 240,25 "practice of medicine" means:26 (f) The practice of midwifery, except:27 167 -59- (I) Services rendered by certified nurse-midwives OR CERTIFIED1 MIDWIVES properly licensed and practicing in accordance with the2 provisions of part 1 of article 255 of this title 12; or3 (3) A person may engage in, and shall not be required to obtain a4 license or a physician training license under this article 240 with respect5 to, any of the following acts:6 (j) The rendering of nursing OR MIDWIFERY services and delegated7 medical functions by registered or other nurses OR CERTIFIED MIDWIVES8 in the lawful discharge of their duties;9 (s) (I) The rendering of prescriptions by an advanced practice10 registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE pursuant to section 12-255-112.11 (II) On or after July 1, 2010, a physician who serves as a preceptor12 or mentor to an advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE13 pursuant to sections 12-240-108 and 12-255-112 (4) shall have a license14 in good standing without disciplinary sanctions to practice medicine in15 Colorado and an unrestricted registration by the federal drug enforcement16 administration for the same schedules as the collaborating advanced17 practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.18 (III) It is unlawful and a violation of this article 240 for any19 person, corporation, or other entity to require payment or employment as20 a condition of entering into a mentorship relationship with the AN21 advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE pursuant to22 sections 12-240-108 and 12-255-112 (4), but the mentor may request23 reimbursement of reasonable expenses and time spent as a result of the24 mentorship relationship.25 SECTION 44. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-240-108, amend26 (1) as follows:27 167 -60- 12-240-108. Collaboration with advanced practice registered1 nurses and certified midwives with prescriptive authority -2 mentorships. (1) (a) A physician licensed pursuant to this article 2403 may, and is encouraged to, serve as a mentor to an advanced practice4 registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who is applying for prescriptive5 authority pursuant to section 12-255-112 (4). A physician who serves as6 a mentor to an advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED7 MIDWIFE seeking prescriptive authority shall:8 (I) Be practicing in Colorado and shall have education, training,9 experience, and active practice that corresponds with the role and10 population focus of the advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED11 MIDWIFE; and12 (II) Have a license in good standing without disciplinary sanctions13 to practice medicine in Colorado and an unrestricted registration by the14 federal drug enforcement administration for the same schedules as the15 advanced practice registered nurse OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.16 (b) A physician serving as a mentor to an advanced practice17 registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE pursuant to section 12-255-11218 (4) shall not require payment or employment as a condition of entering19 into the mentorship relationship, but the physician may request20 reimbursement of reasonable expenses and time spent as a result of the21 mentorship relationship.22 (c) Upon successful completion of a mentorship as described in23 section 12-255-112 (4)(b)(I), the physician shall verify by his or her THE24 PHYSICIAN'S signature that the advanced practice registered nurse OR25 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE has successfully completed the mentorship within the26 required period.27 167 -61- SECTION 45. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-240-121, amend1 (1)(bb) as follows:2 12-240-121. Unprofessional conduct - definitions.3 (1) "Unprofessional conduct" as used in this article 240 means:4 (bb) Entering into or continuing in a mentorship relationship with5 an advanced practice registered nurse OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE pursuant6 to sections 12-240-108 and 12-255-112 (4) that fails to meet generally7 acceptable standards of medical practice;8 SECTION 46. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-240-139, amend9 (1)(b)(I) introductory portion, (1)(b)(I)(B), (1)(b)(I)(C), (1)(b)(II)(B),10 (1)(b)(III), and (1)(b)(V) introductory portion as follows:11 12-240-139. Injuries to be reported - penalty for failure to12 report - immunity from liability - definitions. (1) (b) (I) When a13 licensee, or nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE performs a medical forensic14 examination that includes the collection of evidence at the request of a15 victim of sexual assault, the licensee's, or nurse's, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S16 employing medical facility shall, with the consent of the victim of the17 sexual assault, make one of the following reports to law enforcement:18 (B) A medical report if a victim wishes to obtain a medical19 forensic examination with evidence collection but at the time of the20 medical forensic examination chooses not to participate in the criminal21 justice system. The licensee, or nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall collect22 the evidence and victim-identifying information, and the employing23 medical facility shall release the evidence and information to law24 enforcement for testing in accordance with section 24-33.5-113 (1)(b)(III)25 and storage in accordance with section 18-3-407.5 (3)(c).26 (C) An anonymous report if a victim wishes to obtain a medical27 167 -62- forensic examination with evidence collection but at the time of the1 medical forensic examination chooses not to have personal identifying2 information provided to law enforcement or to participate in the criminal3 justice system. The licensee, or nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall collect4 the evidence, and the employing medical facility shall release it to law5 enforcement for storage in accordance with section 18-3-407.5 (3)(c).6 Law enforcement shall receive no identifying information for the victim.7 Law enforcement shall assign a unique identifying number to the8 evidence, and the licensee, or nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall record9 the identifying number in the medical record and notify the victim that the10 identifying number is recorded. Additionally, the licensee, or nurse, OR11 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE shall provide the identifying number to the victim.12 (II) Nothing in this section:13 (B) Requires a licensee, nurse, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or medical14 facility to make a report to law enforcement concerning an alleged sexual15 assault if medical forensic evidence is not collected.16 (III) If the licensee's, NURSE'S, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE'S employing17 medical facility knows where the alleged sexual assault occurred, the18 facility shall make the report with the law enforcement agency in whose19 jurisdiction the crime occurred regarding preservation of the evidence. If20 the medical facility does not know where the alleged sexual assault21 occurred, the facility shall make the report with its local law enforcement22 agency regarding preservation of the evidence.23 (V) A licensee, or nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who performs a24 medical forensic examination as described in subsection (1)(b)(I) of this25 section shall inform the victim:26 SECTION 47. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-245-220, amend27 167 -63- (2)(b) as follows:1 12-245-220. Disclosure of confidential communications -2 definitions. (2) Subsection (1) of this section does not apply and a person3 may disclose confidential information when:4 (b) A licensee, registrant, or certificate holder was in consultation5 with a physician, registered professional nurse, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE,6 licensee, registrant, or certificate holder against whom a suit or complaint7 was filed based on the case out of which the suit or complaint arises;8 SECTION 48. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-250-106, amend9 (7) as follows:10 12-250-106. Practice of naturopathic medicine by11 naturopathic doctors - exclusions - protected activities - definition -12 rules. (7) As used in this section, "licensed pediatric health-care13 provider" means a licensed physician, or AN advanced practice registered14 nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who treats children.15 SECTION 49. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-280-123, amend16 (1)(b) as follows:17 12-280-123. Prescription required - exception - dispensing18 opiate antagonists - selling nonprescription syringes and needles.19 (1) (b) A pharmacist who receives an order for a controlled substance20 that is included in schedule II, III, or IV from a podiatrist, dentist,21 physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse,22 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or optometrist, which order is not transmitted23 electronically to the pharmacist, is not required to verify the applicability24 of an exception to electronic prescribing of controlled substances under25 section 12-30-111 and may dispense the controlled substance pursuant to26 a written, oral, or facsimile-transmitted order that is otherwise valid and27 167 -64- consistent with the requirements of current law.1 SECTION 50. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-280-125.7,2 amend (1)(f)(II) as follows:3 12-280-125.7. Pharmacists' authority to prescribe and4 dispense HIV infection prevention drugs - definitions - rules. (1) As5 used in this section:6 (f) "Prescriber" means:7 (II) An advanced practice registered nurse, as defined in section8 12-255-104 (1), OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, AS DEFINED IN SECTION9 12-255-104 (3.2), with prescriptive authority pursuant to section10 12-255-112.11 SECTION 51. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 12-300-104, amend12 (3)(c), (3)(d)(II), and (3)(e) as follows:13 12-300-104. Definitions. As used in this article 300, unless the14 context otherwise requires:15 (3) "Respiratory therapy" means providing therapy, management,16 rehabilitation, support services for diagnostic evaluation, and care of17 patients with deficiencies and abnormalities that affect the pulmonary18 system under the overall direction of a medical director. Respiratory19 therapy includes the following:20 (c) Direct and indirect respiratory care services, including but not 21 limited to the administration of pharmacological, diagnostic, and22 therapeutic agents related to respiratory care procedures necessary to23 implement a treatment, disease prevention, and pulmonary rehabilitative24 or diagnostic regimen prescribed by a physician, or AN advanced practice25 registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE;26 (d) Observation and monitoring of signs, symptoms, reactions,27 167 -65- general behavior, and general physical response to respiratory care1 treatment and diagnostic testing for:2 (II) The implementation based on observed abnormalities of3 appropriate reporting, referral, or respiratory care protocols or changes in4 treatment regimen pursuant to a prescription by a physician, or AN5 advanced practice registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE or the6 initiation of emergency procedures;7 (e) The diagnostic and therapeutic use of the following in8 accordance with the prescription of a physician, or AN advanced practice9 registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE: Administration of medical10 gases, exclusive of general anesthesia; aerosols; humidification;11 environmental control systems and biomedical therapy; pharmacologic12 agents related to respiratory care procedures; mechanical or physiological13 ventilatory support; bronchopulmonary hygiene; respiratory protocol and14 evaluation; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; maintenance of the natural15 airways; insertion and maintenance of artificial airways; diagnostic and16 testing techniques required for implementation of respiratory care17 protocols; collection of specimens from the respiratory tract; or analysis18 of blood gases and respiratory secretions and participation in19 cardiopulmonary research; and20 SECTION 52. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 10-16-139, amend21 (1) as follows:22 10-16-139. Access to care - rules - definitions. (1) Access to23 obstetricians and gynecologists. A health benefit plan that is delivered,24 issued, renewed, or reinstated in this state on or after January 1, 2014, that25 provides coverage for reproductive health or gynecological care shall not26 be delivered, issued, renewed, or reinstated unless the plan provides a27 167 -66- woman covered by the plan direct access to an obstetrician, a1 gynecologist, a physician assistant authorized under section 12-240-1072 (6), or an advanced practice registered nurse who is a certified nurse3 midwife pursuant to section 12-255-111, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE4 LICENSED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12-255-111.5, participating and5 available under the plan for her reproductive health care or gynecological6 care.7 SECTION 53. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 13-21-108.7,8 amend (2)(b)(I)(A) as follows:9 13-21-108.7. Persons rendering emergency assistance through10 the administration of an opiate antagonist - limited immunity -11 legislative declaration - definitions. (2) Definitions. As used in this12 section, unless the context otherwise requires:13 (b) (I) "Health-care provider" means:14 (A) A licensed physician, AN advanced practice registered nurse,15 OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who has prescriptive authority pursuant to16 section 12-255-112; A physician assistant; or A pharmacist; or17 SECTION 54. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 13-21-115.5, add18 (3)(c)(II)(E.5) as follows:19 13-21-115.5. Volunteer service act - immunity - exception for20 operation of motor vehicles - short title - legislative declaration -21 definitions. (3) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise22 requires:23 (c) (II) "Volunteer" includes:24 (E.5) A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE GOVERNED BY THE "NURSE AND25 N URSE AIDE PRACTICE ACT", ARTICLE 255 OF TITLE 12, PERFORMING26 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE TASKS WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE PERSON 'S CERTIFIED27 167 -67- MIDWIFE LICENSE AND PERFORMING PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE1 UNDER AUTHORITY GRANTED BY THE STATE BOARD OF NURSING PURSUANT2 TO SECTIONS 12-255-111.5 AND 12-255-112 AS A VOLUNTEER FOR A3 NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION , A NONPROFIT CORPORATION , A4 GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY , OR A HOSPITAL;5 SECTION 55. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-1-802, amend6 (1)(a) and (1)(b)(II) as follows:7 25-1-802. Patient records in custody of individual health-care8 providers. (1) (a) Every patient record in the custody of a podiatrist,9 chiropractor, dentist, doctor of medicine, doctor of osteopathy, nurse,10 CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, optometrist, occupational therapist, audiologist,11 acupuncturist, direct-entry midwife, or physical therapist required to be12 licensed under title 12; a naturopathic doctor required to be registered13 pursuant to article 250 of title 12; or a person practicing psychotherapy14 under article 245 of title 12, except records withheld in accordance with15 45 CFR 164.524 (a), must be available to the patient or the patient's16 personal representative upon submission of a valid authorization for17 inspection of records, dated and signed by the patient, at reasonable times18 and upon reasonable notice. A summary of records pertaining to a19 patient's mental health problems may, upon written request accompanied20 by a signed and dated authorization, be made available to the patient or21 the patient's personal representative following termination of the22 treatment program.23 (b) (II) If a licensed health-care professional determines that a24 copy of a radiographic study, including an X ray, mammogram, CT scan,25 MRI, or other film, is not sufficient for diagnostic or other treatment26 purposes, the podiatrist, chiropractor, dentist, doctor of medicine, doctor27 167 -68- of osteopathy, nurse, CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, optometrist, audiologist,1 acupuncturist, direct-entry midwife, or physical therapist required to be2 licensed under title 12, or, subject to the provisions of section 25-1-8013 (1)(a) and subsection (1)(a) of this section, the person practicing4 psychotherapy under article 245 of title 12, shall make the original of any5 radiographic study available to the patient, the patient's personal6 representative, a person authorized by the patient, or another health-care7 professional or facility as specifically directed by the patient, personal8 representative, authorized person, or health-care professional or facility9 pursuant to a HIPAA-compliant authorization and upon the payment of10 the reasonable fees for the radiographic study. If a practitioner releases an11 original radiographic study pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II), the12 practitioner is not responsible for any loss, damage, or other13 consequences as a result of the release. Any original radiographic study14 made available pursuant to this subsection (1)(b)(II) must be returned15 upon request to the lending practitioner within thirty days.16 SECTION 56. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-1-1202, amend17 (1)(n) and (1)(q) as follows:18 25-1-1202. Index of statutory sections regarding medical19 record confidentiality and health information. (1) Statutory provisions20 concerning policies, procedures, and references to the release, sharing,21 and use of medical records and health information include the following:22 (n) Section 12-30-204, concerning professional review23 committees for physicians HEALTH-CARE PROVIDERS SPECIFIED IN PART 224 OF ARTICLE 30 OF TITLE 12;25 (q) Section 12-255-119, concerning disciplinary proceedings26 against a practical nurse, a professional nurse, A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or27 167 -69- a psychiatric technician;1 SECTION 57. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-3.5-207, amend2 (1)(e) as follows:3 25-3.5-207. Ability of certified or licensed emergency medical4 service providers to work in clinical settings - restrictions -5 definitions - rules. (1) As used in this section, unless the context6 otherwise requires:7 (e) "Medical supervisor" means a Colorado-licensed physician,8 physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, or registered9 nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE.10 SECTION 58. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-4-1709, amend11 (5) as follows:12 25-4-1709. Limitations on liability. (5) A practitioner licensed13 to practice medicine pursuant to article 240 of title 12 or LICENSED TO14 PRACTICE nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE pursuant to part 1 of article15 255 of title 12 or the health-care clinic, hospital, office of a private16 practitioner, or county public health clinic at which the immunization was17 administered that relies on the health history and other information given18 by a person who has been delegated the authority to consent to the19 immunization of a minor pursuant to section 25-4-1704 (2.5) is not liable20 for damages related to an immunization resulting from factual errors in21 the health history or information given to the practitioner or the22 health-care clinic, hospital, office of a private practitioner, or county23 public health clinic at which the immunization was administered by the24 person when such practitioner or health-care clinic, hospital, office of a25 private practitioner, or county public health clinic reasonably relies upon26 the health history information given and exercises reasonable and prudent27 167 -70- care in administering the immunization.1 SECTION 59. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-4-2403, amend2 (8) as follows:3 25-4-2403. Department of public health and environment -4 powers and duties - immunization tracking system - rules -5 definitions. (8) A person licensed to practice medicine pursuant to article6 240 of title 12; a person licensed to practice nursing OR AS A CERTIFIED7 MIDWIFE pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title 12; any other licensed8 health-care practitioner as defined in section 25-4-1703; providers of9 county nursing services; staff members of health-care clinics, hospitals,10 and offices of private practitioners; county, district, and municipal public11 health agencies; and all persons and entities listed in subsection (2) of this12 section are authorized to report to the immunization tracking system and13 to use the reminder and recall process established by the immunization14 tracking system.15 SECTION 60. In Colorado Revised Statutes, amend 25-6-203 as16 follows:17 25-6-203. Extent of services. Family planning and birth control18 services shall include: Interview with trained personnel; distribution of19 literature; referral to a licensed physician, or AN advanced practice20 registered nurse, OR A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE for consultation, examination,21 tests, medical treatment, and prescription; and, to the extent so prescribed,22 the distribution of rhythm charts, drugs, medical preparations,23 contraceptive devices, and similar products.24 SECTION 61. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-37-102, amend25 the introductory portion and (7) as follows:26 25-37-102. Definitions. As used in this article ARTICLE 37, unless27 167 -71- the context otherwise requires:1 (7) "Health-care provider" means a person licensed or certified in2 this state to practice medicine, pharmacy, chiropractic, nursing, physical3 therapy, podiatry, dentistry, optometry, occupational therapy; TO4 PRACTICE AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE; or TO PRACTICE other healing arts.5 "Health-care provider" also means an ambulatory surgical center, a6 licensed pharmacy or provider of pharmacy services, and a professional7 corporation or other corporate entity consisting of licensed health-care8 providers as permitted by the laws of this state.9 SECTION 62. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25.5-4-412, amend10 (5) as follows:11 25.5-4-412. Family planning services - family-planning-related12 services - rules - definitions. (5) Any recipient may obtain family13 planning services or family-planning-related services from any licensed14 health-care provider, including but not limited to a doctor of medicine,15 doctor of osteopathy, physician assistant, or advanced practice registered16 nurse, OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE who provides such services. The enrollment17 of a recipient in a managed care organization, or a similar entity, does not18 restrict a recipient's choice of the licensed provider from whom the19 recipient may receive those services.20 SECTION 63. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 25.5-10-204,21 amend (2)(j)(III) and (2)(j)(IV) as follows:22 25.5-10-204. Duties of the executive director - state board23 rules - definitions - repeal. (2) The state board shall adopt such rules,24 in accordance with section 24-4-103, as are necessary to carry out the25 provisions and purposes of this article 10, including but not limited to the26 following subjects:27 167 -72- (j) (III) A person who is not otherwise authorized by law to1 administer nutrition and fluids through gastrostomy tubes is allowed to2 perform the duties only under the supervision of a licensed nurse, A3 LICENSED CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or A LICENSED physician. A person who4 administers nutrition and fluids in compliance with the provisions of this5 subsection (2)(j) is exempt from the licensing requirements of the6 "Colorado Medical Practice Act", article 240 of title 12, and the "Nurse7 and Nurse Aide Practice Act", article 255 of title 12. Nothing in this8 subsection (2)(j) shall be deemed to authorize the administration of9 medications through gastrostomy tubes. A person administering10 medications through gastrostomy tubes is subject to the requirements of11 part 3 of article 1.5 of title 25.12 (IV) For purposes of this paragraph (j), AS USED IN THIS13 SUBSECTION (2)(j):14 (A) "Administration" means assisting a person in the ingestion of15 nutrition or fluids according to the direction and supervision of a licensed16 nurse, A LICENSED CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or A LICENSED physician.17 (B) "C ERTIFIED MIDWIFE" HAS THE SAME MEANING AS SET FORTH18 IN SECTION 12-255-104 (3.2).19 SECTION 64. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 27-10.5-103,20 amend (2)(i)(III) and (2)(i)(IV) as follows:21 27-10.5-103. Duties of the executive director - rules -22 definitions. (2) In accordance with section 24-4-103, and in coordination23 with the requirements of article 10 of title 25.5, the department shall24 adopt such rules as are necessary to carry out the provisions and purposes25 of this article 10.5, including but not limited to the following:26 (i) (III) A person who is not otherwise authorized by law to27 167 -73- administer nutrition and fluids through gastrostomy tubes is allowed to1 perform the duties only under the supervision of a licensed nurse, A2 LICENSED CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or A LICENSED physician. A person who3 administers nutrition and fluids in compliance with the provisions of this4 subsection (2)(i) is exempt from the licensing requirements of the5 "Colorado Medical Practice Act", article 240 of title 12, and the "Nurse6 and Nurse Aide Practice Act", article 255 of title 12. Nothing in this7 subsection (2)(i) shall be deemed to authorize the administration of8 medications through gastrostomy tubes. A person administering9 medications through gastrostomy tubes is subject to the requirements of10 part 3 of article 1.5 of title 25.11 (IV) For purposes of this paragraph (i), AS USED IN THIS12 SUBSECTION (2)(i):13 (A) "Administration" means assisting a person in the ingestion of14 nutrition or fluids according to the direction and supervision of a licensed15 nurse, A LICENSED CERTIFIED MIDWIFE, or A LICENSED physician.16 (B) "C ERTIFIED MIDWIFE" HAS THE SAME MEANING AS SET FORTH17 IN SECTION 12-255-104 (3.2).18 SECTION 65. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 27-81-118, amend19 (2)(a)(I)(C) as follows:20 27-81-118. Opioid crisis recovery funds advisory committee -21 creation - membership - purpose. (2) (a) The committee consists of22 members appointed as follows:23 (I) Thirteen members appointed by the governor, including:24 (C) One member licensed to practice as a nurse OR AS A CERTIFIED25 MIDWIFE pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title 12;26 SECTION 66. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 27-82-202, amend27 167 -74- (2) as follows:1 27-82-202. Definitions. As used in this part 2, unless the context2 otherwise requires:3 (2) "Licensed health-care provider" means a physician or4 physician assistant licensed pursuant to article 240 of title 12 or a nurse5 OR CERTIFIED MIDWIFE licensed pursuant to part 1 of article 255 of title6 12.7 SECTION 67. In Colorado Revised Statutes, 38-12-401, amend8 (4) as follows:9 38-12-401. Definitions. As used in this part 4, unless the context10 otherwise requires:11 (4) "Medical professional" means a person licensed to practice12 medicine pursuant to article 240 of title 12 or TO PRACTICE NURSING OR13 AS A CERTIFIED MIDWIFE PURSUANT TO part 1 of article 255 of title 12.14 SECTION 68. Appropriation. For the 2023-24 state fiscal year, 15 $15,393 is appropriated to the department of public health and16 environment for use by the health facilities and emergency medical17 services division. This appropriation is from the general fund and is based18 on an assumption that the division will require an additional 0.2 FTE. To19 implement this act, the division may use this appropriation for20 administration and operations related to operations management.21 SECTION 69. Effective date. This act takes effect upon passage;22 except that section 12-255-105, Colorado Revised Statues, as amended23 in section 3 of this act, takes effect July 1, 2024.24 SECTION 70. Safety clause. The general assembly hereby finds,25 determines, and declares that this act is necessary for the immediate26 preservation of the public peace, health, or safety.27 167 -75-