West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB81

Introduced
1/10/24  

Caption

Board of Licensed Dietitians rule relating to continuing professional education requirements

Impact

The impact of SB81 on state laws involves the formalization of continuing education protocols for dietitians in West Virginia. By establishing these requirements, the bill seeks to align the state's educational standards with national practices, thereby potentially improving health outcomes through better-informed dietary practices. The legislation is part of broader efforts to enhance professional regulations within the healthcare industry, emphasizing the importance of keeping professionals up-to-date with evolving practices and knowledge.

Summary

Senate Bill 81, introduced in West Virginia, aims to amend and reenact a section of the Code of West Virginia pertaining to the West Virginia Board of Licensed Dietitians. The primary objective of this bill is to authorize the board to promulgate a legislative rule regarding continuing professional education requirements for licensed dietitians. This move is intended to ensure that dietitians maintain a high standard of professional knowledge and skills through ongoing education, thus enhancing the quality of care provided to the public.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around SB81 appears to be positive, especially among health professionals and regulators who advocate for competent dietary practices. Supporters believe that mandatory continuing education will fortify the skills of dietitians, ultimately benefiting the public health sector. Nonetheless, some may view the bill with caution due to concerns about the implications of increased educational requirements for practicing dietitians and the potential economic burdens that may arise from mandatory continuing education.

Contention

Notable contention points may revolve around the specifics of the continuing education requirements, such as the number of hours required, the types of courses permissible for credit, and how these standards are enforced. Those opposing the bill might raise issues about accessibility and affordability of continuing education programs, particularly for rural or economically disadvantaged dietitians. Additionally, the language surrounding the rule-making authority of the board may be scrutinized, ensuring it does not overreach or impose undue burdens on practitioners.

Companion Bills

WV HB4125

Similar To Authorizing the West Virginia Board of Licensed Dietitians to promulgate a legislative rule relating to continuing professional education requirements

Previously Filed As

WV HB3317

Relating to removing specific continuing education requirements

WV SB364

Authorizing Board of Acupuncture to promulgate legislative rule relating to continuing education requirements

WV HB2695

Authorizing the Board of Acupuncture to promulgate a legislative rule relating to continuing education requirements

WV SB385

Authorizing Board of Medicine to promulgate legislative rule relating to licensure, practice requirements, disciplinary and complaint procedures, continuing education, physician assistants

WV HB2716

Authorizing the Board of Medicine to promulgate a legislative rule relating to licensure, practice requirements, disciplinary and complaint procedures, continuing education, physician assistants

WV SB400

Authorizing Board of Registered Nurses to promulgate legislative rule relating to continuing education and competence

WV HB2731

Authorizing the Board of Registered Nurses to promulgate a legislative rule relating to continuing education and competence

WV SB512

Providing that continuing education credits shall be valid for three years

WV HB2692

Authorizing the Board of Accountancy to promulgate a legislative rule relating to board rules of professional conduct

WV HB3171

Provide that continuing education credits shall not expire for 3 years

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.