Nebraska Legislature Bill LB1373

Nebraska 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/24
• Refer: 1/18/24
• Failed: 4/18/24

Caption

Adopt the Dietitian Licensure Compact and change provisions relating to criminal background checks

Impact

The passage of LB1373 would significantly alter the licensure landscape for dietitians, enabling them to provide services in member states under a unified set of standards. This could have direct implications for nutrition assistance programs and healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas where dietetic services may be limited. By adopting the Compact, states will also help to mitigate phenomena such as workforce shortages in the nutrition field, enhancing service availability throughout various regions.

Summary

LB1373 aims to adopt the Dietitian Licensure Compact, which will allow dietitians to practice across state lines without needing to obtain multiple state licenses. This legislation seeks to streamline the process of obtaining licensure for dietitians and facilitate the delivery of nutrition services. Supporters of the bill argue that it is an essential step in modernizing healthcare delivery and increasing access to dietetic services for patients residing in states that are part of the compact.

Contention

Despite its potential advantages, the bill has faced some opposition. Critics raise concerns about the adequacy of background checks required for licensure and the potential dilution of state-specific regulations and standards. They argue that while interstate practice is beneficial, it could lead to a lack of accountability or oversight by state boards. Discussions around these points have highlighted a tension between fostering interstate mobility for healthcare professionals and ensuring robust state regulations that protect public health.