Bill > S0170

This bill grants the director of the Rhode Island Department of Health the authority to review and approve or deny professional licensure applications when a specific licensing board cannot establish a quorum (the minimum number of members required to conduct official business) for more than 30 business days. The proposed amendment to Section 23-1-17 of the General Laws creates a new subsection that allows the director to step in and process pending license applications that would otherwise be stalled due to the board's inability to meet. Importantly, this new authority does not extend to disciplinary actions, which would remain the sole responsibility of the respective licensing board. The bill aims to prevent administrative bottlenecks that could delay professionals from obtaining necessary licenses by providing a backup mechanism when a board is temporarily non-functional. The new provision would take effect immediately upon passage, giving the health director an additional administrative tool to ensure continuity in professional licensing processes.

Health and Social Services

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