Bill > SB1438

This bill requires each health regulatory board overseen by the Department of Health Professions to create a licensure by endorsement pathway, which is a streamlined process for professionals already licensed in another jurisdiction to obtain a license in Virginia more easily. The bill specifically designates the Board of Medicine as the first board that must develop these regulations. When creating these new regulations, the health regulatory boards will be temporarily exempt from the standard administrative rulemaking process outlined in the Administrative Process Act, but they must still provide an opportunity for public comment. The goal appears to be to make it simpler for qualified healthcare professionals to become licensed in Virginia, potentially addressing workforce shortages or making it more convenient for practitioners to move to or work in the state. By requiring each board to establish an endorsement pathway, the bill aims to create a more uniform and accessible licensure system across different healthcare professions.

Education, Health and Social Services

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB1438