Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5614

Introduced

2/26/25

Refer

2/26/25

Report Pass

6/12/25

Engrossed

6/16/25

Refer

6/20/25

Caption

Makes a series of amendments to several statutes regarding businesses and professions to provide clarity or align with new federal requirements.

Impact

The amendments outlined in H5614 are expected to strengthen the regulatory framework for healthcare professionals in Rhode Island. By standardizing requirements across professions, the bill aims to enhance the quality of care provided to patients and ensure that practitioners meet stringent standards of education and ethical conduct. However, the bill may also impose additional burdens on current practitioners who must adapt to new regulations, including changes to their continuing education obligations and licensure applications.

Summary

House Bill H5614 proposes a series of amendments to existing laws regarding the licensing and regulation of various health professions, specifically focusing on nurses, speech-language pathologists, and audiologists. The bill aims to enhance clarity and align state laws with new federal requirements. It introduces modifications to licensure qualifications, continuing education mandates, and regulations for supervising support personnel in these fields. One significant aspect is the requirement for a national criminal background check as part of the licensure process, which is aimed at ensuring public safety and professional integrity.

Contention

Despite the overall positive objective of H5614, there are areas of contention among stakeholders. Some healthcare professionals express concerns regarding the potential increase in the cost and complexity of obtaining and maintaining licenses due to new requirements. Additionally, opponents argue that certain provisions could lead to a loss of local control and flexibility in responding to the unique needs of specific communities. Balancing the need for federal compliance with the local needs remains a focal point of the discussions surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7738

Relocates the chapter relating to licensing of massage therapists from the health and safety title to the businesses and professions title with multiple amendments.

RI S2625

Relocates the chapter relating to licensing of massage therapists from the health and safety title to the businesses and professions title with multiple amendments.

RI S2083

Amends the conditions upon which a nurse would be exempt from certain licensing requirements to include eligibility to practice, before taking and receiving results of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).