HB 17-1121

HB 17-1121, also known as the Patient Safety Act, requires healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, dentists, and veterinarians in Colorado to undergo a criminal background check before they can be licensed or certified. This means that anyone applying for or renewing their license in these professions must submit fingerprints for a thorough criminal history review. The bill also includes provisions related to nurse reporting requirements and the implementation of an enhanced compact for nurse licensure, which affects how nurses are licensed across different states. Since it has been signed into law, this act is now enforceable and impacts all healthcare professionals seeking or renewing their licenses in Colorado.

Official Summary

The bill requires applicants for initial licensure or certification, as well as current licensees and certificate holders, to submit to a fingerprint-based criminal history record check for: Podiatrists ( sections 1 and 2 ); Dentists and dental hygienists ( sections 3 and 4 ); Medical doctors, physician assistants, and anesthesiologist assistants ( sections 5 and 6 ); Nurses ( sections 7 and 8 ); Certified nurse aides ( sections 12 and 13 ); Optometrists ( sections 16 through 18 ); and Veterinarians ( sections 19 through 21 ). Sections 9 and 10 of the bill establish standards for certain professional nurses, practical nurses, and retired volunteer nurses who suffer from a physical or mental illness or condition that renders the nurse unable to practice. Section 11 of the bill eliminates the nurse alternative to discipline program. Sections 14 and 15 of the bill require an employer of a certified nurse aide (CNA) to report any violation of the CNA practice act that results in a CNA being terminated from employment, including resignation in lieu of termination, within 30 days after the termination or resignation. The state board of nursing is authorized to fine an employer that fails to report the termination or resignation. Section 22 amends the 'Medical Transparency Act of 2010' to include a person applying for nurse licensure under the 'Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact' within the definition of 'applicant'. Section 23 of the bill repeals the current 'Nurse Licensure Compact' and adopts the 'Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact'. Section 24 appropriates $576,126 from the Colorado bureau of investigation identification unit fund to the department of public safety to implement the bill.(Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)

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