Bill to Codify Licensure Exemptions Awaits Governor’s Signature

capitol building

capitol buildingThe full House passed Senate Bill (SB) 759 Dec. 14 and it now awaits the governor’s signature. Introduced by Sen. Curt VanderWall (R-Ludington) and supported by the MHA, SB 759 would codify a provision that has given hospitals flexibility to appropriately respond to the pandemic; however, the provision is set to expire Jan. 11.

In March 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs activated its statutory authority given in the Public Health Code that allows it to grant licensure exemptions “in a time of disaster” such as a pandemic. This permits licensed out-of-state providers who are in good standing and trained, educated and experienced to render medical care in Michigan without a Michigan license. The MHA greatly appreciates the collaborative work with the administration to codify this flexibility into law and expressed its gratitude in a letter submitted to the Executive Office of the Governor. The letter thanks Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her continued partnership in battling COVID-19 and urges her to quickly sign SB 759, which would allow hospitals and health systems to recruit out-of-state workers quickly and efficiently. Members with questions should contact Adam Carlson at the MHA.