summary
Introduced
01/20/2025
01/20/2025
In Committee
01/20/2025
01/20/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/13/2025
02/13/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An Act To Be Known As The Mississippi Genetic Counselor Practice Act; To Provide For The Licensure And Regulation Of Genetic Counselors By The State Board Of Health; To Define Certain Terms And Define The Scope Of Practice Of Genetic Counseling; To Provide That From And After January 1, 2026, A License Issued Under This Act Is Required To Engage In The Practice Of Genetic Counseling; To Prohibit Persons From Holding Themselves Out As Genetic Counselors Unless They Are Licensed In Accordance With This Act; To Prescribe The Minimum Qualifications For Genetic Counseling Licensure; To Provide For Reciprocal Licensure For Persons Who Are Licensed Or Registered As A Genetic Counselor Under The Laws Of Another State; To Authorize The Board To Grant Provisional Genetic Counselor Licenses For Persons Who Have Been Granted Active Candidate Status; To Prescribe Continuing Education Requirements For Licensees; To Provide Exemptions From Licensure For Certain Persons; To Create The Mississippi Council Of Advisors In Genetic Counseling To Advise The Board And Department On Matters Relating To The Administration And Interpretation Of The Provisions Of This Act; To Prescribe The Powers And Duties Of The Board In Administering The Provisions Of This Act; To Authorize The Board To Deny, Suspend Or Revoke Licenses For Certain Conduct; To Authorize The Board To Receive And Process Complaints And Investigate Allegations Or Practices Violating The Provisions Of This Act; To Authorize The Board To Seek Injunctive Relief To Prohibit Persons From Providing Services As A Genetic Counselor Without Being Licensed Under This Act; To Provide Criminal Penalties For Violations Of This Act; And For Related Purposes.
AI Summary
This bill establishes the Mississippi Genetic Counselor Practice Act, which creates a comprehensive regulatory framework for genetic counselors in the state. Starting January 1, 2026, genetic counselors will be required to obtain a license from the State Board of Health to practice, with specific qualifications including a master's degree and certification from recognized boards like the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) or American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG). The bill defines genetic counseling as a professional practice involving obtaining medical histories, assessing genetic risks, explaining genetic conditions, ordering diagnostic tests, and providing client-centered counseling. It establishes a Mississippi Council of Advisors in Genetic Counseling to advise the board, creates provisions for provisional licenses for those working toward full certification, and mandates continuing education requirements of 12.5 hours every five years. The bill includes exemptions for certain professionals like physicians and federal employees, and outlines a process for license renewal, suspension, and revocation. Violations of the act can result in misdemeanor charges with potential fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months. The legislation aims to ensure professional standards, protect public health, and regulate the practice of genetic counseling in Mississippi.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Died On Calendar (on 02/13/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2705.xml |
| BillText | https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/documents/2025/html/SB/2700-2799/SB2705IN.htm |
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