IHA Members
Prepared by: Julie Halbig
Report created on April 24, 2024
 
HB1007MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS. (KIRCHHOFER C) Requires the office of Medicaid policy and planning to implement a centralized credentials verification organization and credentialing process. Allows the division of mental health and addiction (division) to grant approval for nine additional opioid treatment programs that: (1) are operated by a hospital; and (2) meet other specified requirements; if the division determines that there is a need for the program in the proposed location. Provides that mental health and addiction forensic treatment services may be administered or coordinated only by a provider certified by the division or licensed by the Indiana professional licensing agency to provide mental health and addiction treatment. (Under current law, a provider may provide services only if the provider is certified or licensed by the division.) Requires the division to establish best practice guidelines to assist employers with certain employees who agree to participate in a drug education and addiction treatment program (program). Requires the division to: (1) promote voluntary participation; (2) develop and deliver informational resources and training for employers; and (3) collect information and prepare an annual report. Provides that if an employer and employee comply with certain requirements, the employer is not liable in a civil action alleging negligent hiring for negligence of the employee. Provides that in certain civil actions, an employer's participation in the program is not admissible as evidence. Establishes new temporary permits for certain individuals who are pursuing required clinical supervisory hours needed for licensure. Allows clinical social work experience hours obtained under a temporary permit to be counted to supervise work experience requirements if certain conditions are met. Provides that the temporary permits are not renewable. Requires certain policies of accident and sickness insurance to provide coverage for substance abuse or chemical dependency treatment provided by: (1) an addiction counselor; and (2) a marriage and family therapist. Requires: (1) an accident and sickness insurer; and (2) a health maintenance organization; to provide provisional credentialing to a provider for which a credentialing determination is not completed in at least 30 days if certain requirements are met. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the impact that opioid treatment programs have on the neighborhoods and communities in the immediate area of the opioid treatment programs.
 Current Status:   3/22/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1017NEWBORN SCREENING. (GUTWEIN D) Adds spinal muscular atrophy and severe combined immunodeficiency to the list of disorders in the newborn screening requirements.
 Current Status:   3/8/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1058INFLUENZA INFORMATION TO RESIDENTS. (BACON R) Requires an operator of a housing with services establishment to provide to residents certain information concerning influenza and influenza vaccinations. Specifies that an operator is deemed to be in compliance with the requirement if the operator provides a resident the latest vaccination information statement concerning influenza issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1117NURSING FACILITY MEDICAID REIMBURSEMENT RATES. (FRIZZELL D) Requires the office of Medicaid policy and planning to use the report card score published by the state department of health on June 30, 2017, to establish the nursing facility report card score measure of the nursing facility total quality score in determining reimbursement rates to nursing facilities for services provided to Medicaid recipients for the July 1, 2018, rate effective date.
 Current Status:   3/8/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1119PHYSICIAN ORDER FOR SCOPE OF TREATMENT AND CONSENT. (KIRCHHOFER C) Provides that the definition of "cardiopulmonary resuscitation" (CPR) that applies to a do not resuscitate declaration also applies to a physician order for scope of treatment (POST) form. Adds licensed dentists, home health aides, and physician assistants to the definition of "health care provider" for purposes of a POST form. Establishes a priority order for who may provide consent if an adult is incapable of providing consent to health care. Provides exceptions to the priority order. Provides that if the individuals at the same priority level disagree as to the health care decisions on behalf of the patient, a majority of the available individuals at the same priority level controls. Provides that if an individual is incapable of consenting to the individual's own health care, the health care provider shall make a reasonable inquiry as to the availability of individuals who are able to provide health care consent. Specifies that the POST laws do not create a duty for a person to perform CPR on a declarant if the declarant's POST form indicates the declarant is not to be resuscitated. Allows a treating physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant to execute and exercise certain responsibilities concerning a POST form. Allows a qualified person or representative to use an electronic signature on the POST form. Permits a representative to revoke a POST form if the declarant is incapable of making health care decisions and the representative acts: (1) in good faith; and (2) in accordance with the qualified person's intentions, if known, or in the qualified person's best interests, if the intentions are not known. Allows a POST document that was executed in another state and that meets certain conditions to be honored in Indiana. Requires the state department of health to maintain on the department's Internet web site a list of, or a link to the Internet web sites of, other states that may honor a POST form.
 Current Status:   3/13/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1120STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH MATTERS. (KIRCHHOFER C) Changes references to "methamphetamine laboratory" to "controlled substance". Amends the definition of "property" for purposes of operating a web site that lists properties that have been used in the illegal manufacture of a controlled substance. Authorizes the state department of health (state department) instead of the Indiana department of environmental management (department) to certify qualified inspectors and oversee the decontamination of a site that has been used in the illegal manufacture of a controlled substance. Transfers from the department to the state department powers, duties, records, property, and rules concerning decontamination of a site that has been contaminated by a controlled substance. Repeals the postnatal donation initiative. Makes conforming amendments.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1130PROFESSIONAL LICENSING AGENCY MATTERS. (ZENT D) Allows a person who is enrolled in an architecture degree program to take the architect registration examination. Provides that the dietitians certification board is required to hold one regular meeting each year. (Current law requires two meetings.) Removes and repeals provisions concerning the application for and administration of the dietitian certification examination. Allows an individual to fit and dispense hearing aids while under the supervision and direction of a certified hearing aid dealer. Provides that certain duties of the medical licensing board are now duties of the committee of hearing aid dealer examiners. Requires that a person who applies for a massage therapist license must complete 625 hours of supervised classroom and hands on instruction on massage therapy. (Current law requires 500 hours.) Requires that a person who applies for a massage therapist license must submit to a national criminal history background check. (Current law requires a limited criminal history.) Requires a massage therapist who applies for license renewal to submit proof of professional liability insurance. Removes provisions that: (1) permit a student in medical school to take the medical licensure examination; and (2) concern grading examinations and how often the exam is administered. Changes a reference to a postgraduate training program that allows a permit to be issued to a foreign medical graduate. Requires a physician to make a personal appearance before the medical licensing board to establish the physician's work history if the physician has been inactive for more than three years. (Current law requires an appearance if the inactivity period is more than four years.) Allows the board of pharmacy to issue a provisional wholesale drug distributor license to an applicant that is located in Indiana and is in the process of obtaining accreditation or certification. Requires a third party logistics provider to be licensed by the board of pharmacy before engaging in third party logistics. Provides for certain requirements to be fulfilled prior to licensing for a third party logistics provider. Requires the board of pharmacy to adopt rules for licensing of third party logistics providers. Repeals provisions: (1) concerning the administration of the podiatrist licensure examination; and (2) that allow licensing of podiatrist's assistants. Conforms the podiatrist license reinstatement provisions with statutory reinstatement requirements. Provides that certain information from the previous two years must be reported to renew a podiatrist license. (Current law requires information to be reported from the previous four years.) Makes technical and conforming changes.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1141COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER FUNDING. (SCHAIBLEY D) Specifies the funding amounts that must be provided by counties to community mental health centers. Provides that a county's maximum funding amount for a year is equal to the maximum funding amount for the previous year multiplied by the percentage change in the county's general fund property tax levy, after subtracting circuit breaker credits (but provides that the maximum funding amount will not be less than the preceding year's maximum funding amount). Phases-in this change in the case of Marion County. Requires the department of local government finance (DLGF) to verify the maximum appropriation calculation as part of the DLGF's certification of the county's budget. Specifies that the funding provided by a county to community mental health centers shall be used solely for: (1) the operations of community mental health centers serving the county; or (2) contributing to the nonfederal share of medical assistance payments to community mental health centers serving the county. Provides that unless otherwise agreed to by the county and the community mental health center, the county payment to the community mental health center shall be paid by the county treasurer to the treasurer of the community mental health center's board of directors at least as frequently as semiannually (in July and in December). Provides that a county's funding for community mental health centers shall be apportioned according to the proportion of: (1) the county's population residing in the primary service area of each center that is certified by the division of mental health and addiction; to (2) the total population of the county. Deletes provisions requiring the county to pay the appropriated amounts to the division of mental health and addiction (the division). Deletes the provisions specifying how the payments to the division must be made. Repeals a provision allowing the appropriation of an additional amount under certain circumstances. Provides that the governing board of a community mental health center must include a member of a county fiscal body or a member of a board of county commissioners, appointed by the board of county commissioners of the county where the community mental health center maintains its corporate mailing address. Requires the annual report by a community mental health center to be made to the division of mental health and addiction (division) and to the fiscal body and the board of county commissioners of each county located in the community mental health center's primary service area. (Under current law the report is made only to the county fiscal body.) Specifies certain information that must be included in the annual reports provided by community mental health centers. Requires the division to specify the format of the annual reports that must be provided by community mental health centers. Requires the division to provide an annual report containing certain information to the county fiscal body and board of county commissioners of each county.
 Current Status:   3/14/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1143PRIOR AUTHORIZATION FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICES. (SCHAIBLEY D) Specifies requirements for prior authorization of health plan coverage and claim payment, including provisions requiring electronic transmission of prior authorization requests and responses or, in certain circumstances, use of a standard prior authorization form established by the department of insurance.
 Current Status:   3/14/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1175DIABETES REPORTING. (SUMMERS V) Requires the state department of health (state department) to collaborate with the office of the secretary of family and social services and develop a strategic plan to identify and significantly reduce the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes. Requires the state department to establish workgroups to assist with development of the strategic plan. Requires the state department to submit the strategic plan to the governor and the general assembly and to update the strategic plan every two years until July 1, 2026. (The introduced version of this bill was prepared by the interim study committee on public health, behavioral health, and human services.)
 Current Status:   3/8/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1180EMT USE OF INJECTABLE EPINEPHRINE. (MAHAN K) Requires the emergency medical services commission to establish training and certification standards for the administration of epinephrine through a prefilled syringe and a syringe and ampule by an emergency medical technician (EMT). Allows an EMT who has been certified to administer epinephrine through an auto-injector, a prefilled syringe, and a syringe and ampule.
 Current Status:   3/8/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1191SUSPECTED HUMAN TRAFFICKING. (ENGLEMAN K) Removes the requirement that a licensed health practitioner report that an adult patient is a suspected victim of human trafficking to a local law enforcement agency. Requires a licensed health practitioner to provide information concerning available resources and services to a patient who is a suspected victim of human trafficking.
 Current Status:   3/8/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1203QUALIFIED EGG BANKS. (EBERHART S) Amends, for purposes of the law regarding unlawful transfer of a human organism, the definition of "qualified third party" and changes the term to "qualified egg bank". Specifies qualifications for a physician overseeing medical services related to ovum cryopreservation. Specifies requirements that must be met by a fertility clinic or similar medical facility in order to be considered a qualified egg bank. Exempts from the criminal offense of unlawful transfer of a human organism the payment to or receipt by a qualified egg bank of an amount for: (1) the retrieval of a human ovum; (2) the cryopreservation of a human ovum; (3) the transportation of a human ovum; or (4) other aspects of specified treatments or procedures to enhance human reproductive capability.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1220FSSA MATTERS. (KIRCHHOFER C) Adds representatives of organizations that represent people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities to the commission on rehabilitation services and the Medicaid advisory committee. Clarifies that outpatient home health services may be provided in other appropriate locations determined by the office. Changes the makeup of the drug utilization review board and the frequency with which the board is required to meet. Changes when a participant's funds remaining in the individual's healthy Indiana plan health (HIP) care account are refunded. Removes the HIP $25 copayment requirement for subsequent use of an emergency room for nonemergency services. Allows money in the mental health and addiction forensic treatment services account to be used as the state match under the Medicaid program. (Current law limits use of money in the account for the state match to the Medicaid rehabilitation program and the Behavioral and Primary Health Coordination program.)
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1244HEALTH MATTERS. (DEVON D) Provides that a law enforcement officer who is exposed to blood or body fluids may request to be included in the list of individuals who are provided with notification concerning exposure to a dangerous communicable disease. Specifies that HEA 1017- 2018 concerning newborn screening takes effect on July 1, 2018, instead of on April 1, 2018.
 Current Status:   3/16/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1245OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING. (DEVON D) Provides that the state and a local governmental unit (unit) shall explicitly list the crimes that will disqualify an individual from receiving an occupational license. Provides that the use of an individual's conviction of a crime as a disqualifying criminal conviction is limited to a crime that specifically and directly relates to the duties and responsibilities of the occupation for which the individual is applying for or holds a license. Provides that the period of disqualification may not exceed five years unless the individual: (1) was convicted of a crime of violence or an offense relating to a criminal sexual act; or (2) is convicted of a second or subsequent crime during the disqualification period. Provides that an individual having a criminal conviction may at any time petition the board or unit requiring a license for a determination as to whether the individual's criminal conviction will disqualify the individual from receiving that license. Specifies the notice requirements for network health care providers that make referrals via telephone to out-of-network health care providers. Requires the professional licensing agency to consult with the small business ombudsman, the office of management and budget, and representatives of local units to develop and submit by November 1, 2018, a report to the legislative council concerning proposed policies and parameters for the licensing of occupations and professions by local units in order to reduce or eliminate redundant licensing by the state and multiple local units. Provides that a unit does not have the power to license, register, or certify a person to practice the person's profession or occupation within the unit if the occupation or profession is subject to licensure, registration, or certification under the Indiana Code. Provides that this prohibition does not apply: (1) to registration for particular projects for the alteration, construction, demolition, or repair of a building or other work on real property required under an ordinance or rule adopted under local government law; (2) to the ability to revoke, suspend, or impose additional conditions on a permit or registration previously given if the person holding the permit or registered has performed substandard work or has otherwise violated any condition of the permit or registration; or (3) when the unit determines the establishment and enforcement of health and safety standards for the occupation or profession is appropriate and necessary to protect the public. Makes a technical correction.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1256VARIOUS LOCAL GOVERNMENT MATTERS. (LYNESS R) Provides that a county that sells a county hospital before January 1, 2017, may establish a charitable nonprofit foundation (foundation) to hold some or all of the proceeds of the sale of the county hospital in trust for the benefit of the county, by the council and the county executive adopting substantially similar ordinances to establish the foundation after June 30, 2018. Provides that the ordinances do not supersede or replace any previously adopted ordinance or agreement effectuating: (1) monetary disbursements; and (2) distributions from the previously executed asset purchase agreement to an Indiana nonprofit corporation. Provides the details for the operation of the foundation and use of the trust funds. Provides that another unit in the same county may enter into an interlocal agreement with the county council, the county executive, and the board to invest funds obtained by the unit from the sale of a capital asset into the foundation. Establishes requirements for the contents of the interlocal agreement. Provides that the department of local government finance (DLGF) may not reduce the actual or maximum permissible property tax levy of a unit that enters into an interlocal agreement on account of money transferred into or expended from the foundation. Permits the county to: (1) use money from the principal amount of the donation as a pledge of money to bonds, leases, or other obligations; and (2) pay bonds issued by the county. Specifies that the DLGF may not reduce a county's maximum or actual permissible property tax levy on account of money deposited into or expended from a foundation. Makes changes to certain statutes regarding redevelopment commissions.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1260ISSUANCE OF HOSPITAL LICENSE. (KARICKHOFF M) Requires, beginning January 1, 2019, the state department of health (state department) to issue a hospital license to a hospital that has received accreditation by recognized accrediting organizations for the period the recognized accrediting organization has been granted accreditation. Allows the state department to investigate complaints against an accredited hospital for substantial noncompliance with accredited standards when requested by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Requires the state department to conduct annual surveys for hospitals that are not accredited by a recognized accrediting organization. Requires the state department to conduct random validation surveys on behalf of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Specifies that the licensure by accreditation does not affect the state department's performance of an initial survey of a hospital obtaining an initial license. Requires the state department to work with recognized accrediting organizations to identify, develop, implement, and implement common accrediting and licensure standards. Specifies that any licensure survey must be based on standards established by the recognized accrediting organization that accredits the hospital and state law. Requires the state department to notify the recognized accrediting organization of any changes to state law concerning licensure.
 Current Status:   3/14/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1270CRIMINAL LAW MATTERS. (SIEGRIST S) Changes the human and sexual trafficking statute by: (1) reclassifying the term "human and sexual trafficking" to "human trafficking", which includes the offenses of labor and sexual trafficking; (2) creating separate offenses for labor and sexual trafficking and renaming certain crimes; (3) removing the element of force from forced labor, marriage, prostitution, and participating in sexual conduct; (4) removing involuntary servitude from the human trafficking statute; (5) removing from the sexual trafficking statute the element that a solicitor must know that a person is a human trafficking victim before committing the offense; and (6) adding elements to certain human and sexual trafficking offenses. Expands the rape shield statute to include victims of human trafficking and certain other offenses. Adds an element to the defense of prosecution under the offenses of sexual misconduct with a minor and promotion of sexual trafficking of a younger child. Prohibits certain defenses to a prosecution of making an unlawful proposition. Requires law enforcement to notify the department of child services of a possible child trafficking victim in certain sexual offenses. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the topic of human trafficking in Indiana involving law enforcement, creation of programs, and review of the penalties for human trafficking crimes in the criminal code. Requires the commission on improving the status of children in Indiana to study the topic of what specific authority a law enforcement officer has in order to take custody of or detain a child in certain situations where the officer believes a child may be a victim of human trafficking and who is potentially a child in need of services. Provides a defense to the crime of maintaining a common nuisance if: (1) the charged offense involves less than a specified quantity of marijuana, hashish, hash oil, or salvia or involves paraphernalia; and (2) the person does not have a prior unrelated conviction for maintaining a common nuisance. Adds an exemption for the transfer or receipt of reasonable charges and fees for adoption services provided by an attorney licensed in Indiana from a profiting from an adoption offense. Makes conforming amendments. Makes a technical correction.
 Current Status:   3/19/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1287NEWBORN SCREENINGS. (VANNATTER H) Establishes when a blood sample must be taken from a newborn infant for testing for certain disorders. Provides that the time requirement for taking a blood sample does not apply to preterm infants or newborn infants who receive a total exchange blood transfusion.
 Current Status:   3/8/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1301INSURANCE MATTERS. (CARBAUGH M) Updates names of health care provider billing forms. Amends the financial responsibility requirement for a contract carrier that transports railroad employees. Permits the department of insurance and governor to apply for a state innovation waiver under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Provides for reduced limits and removal of commercial umbrella or excess liability coverage and requires notice of a reduction or removal. Repeals the law providing for a multistate surplus lines insurance compact, which has not gone into effect due to an insufficient number of states enacting the legislation. Amends the law concerning taxation of surplus lines producers on business sold to insureds whose home state is Indiana. Corrects a provision of HEA 1143-2018 providing for paper prior authorization requests. Requires health maintenance organizations to be member insurers in the life and health insurance guaranty association. Repeals unnecessary deposit requirements of HMOs to the department of insurance for noncovered healthcare expenditures. Urges the legislative council to assign the issue of bond requirements for public-private agreements for study during the 2018 interim of the general assembly. Resolves conflicts with SEA 341-2018. Makes conforming amendments.
 Current Status:   3/25/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1317HEALTH MATTERS. (CLERE E) Provides that a pharmacy or pharmacist has a right to provide individuals with information concerning the individual's cost share for a prescription drug. States that a pharmacy or pharmacist cannot be proscribed by a third party administrator, a health insurer, or a health maintenance organization from discussing the information or from selling to the individual a more affordable alternative. Prohibits a copayment for a drug under the state employee health plan, an accident and sickness insurance policy, or a health maintenance organization contract from exceeding the amount payable to the pharmacy for the drug under an agreement with the pharmacy. Provides that changes to the designated coverage area of an area agency on aging may not be made until after a public hearing is held and one year elapses from the date of the hearing. Provides that the definition of "community and home care services" includes services, not covered by Medicaid, necessary to prevent individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities from being institutionalized and to help such individuals to transition out of health care facilities or group homes. Requires the community and home options to institutional care for the elderly and disabled (CHOICE) board to review proposed rules concerning the CHOICE program and removes the time requirement for the review. (Current law requires review of proposed rules concerning home and community based services at least three months before the rule may be published.) Removes provisions concerning the CHOICE board setting a public comment period. Requires the office of the secretary of family and social services to study service provider and systems point of entry reimbursement rates for recipients of early intervention services. Beginning July 1, 2019, removes the 12 month limitation on receipt by certain individuals of supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) benefits. Specifies that, beginning January 1, 2020, Indiana elects to opt out of the federal law prohibiting individuals convicted of certain drug offenses from receiving SNAP assistance if the individual meets specified conditions. Specifies that if the individual violates any terms of the probation, parole, community corrections, or reentry court program, the individual is ineligible for SNAP. Requires the office of the secretary of family and social services to study reimbursement rates and the methodology for case management services for recipients of certain Medicaid waivers. Provides that any new rates as a result of a study: (1) may not take effect until January 1, 2019, or be applied retroactively; and (2) must be approved through a Medicaid waiver amendment. Requires the board of pharmacy to adopt rules concerning telepharmacy under the laws regulating remote dispensing facilities. Exempts from the law regulating pharmacists and pharmacies the delivery of peritoneal renal dialysis related supplies by manufacturers, third party logistic providers, and wholesale drug distributors in certain circumstances. Removes that an occupant of a property was afflicted with or died from a disease related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from the definition of "psychologically affected property". Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the impact that joining the nurse licensure compact would have on the delivery of nursing services to residents of Indiana.
 Current Status:   3/25/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1359DRUG DEALING RESULTING IN DEATH. (STEUERWALD G) Makes manufacturing or dealing certain controlled substances resulting in the death of a user: (1) a Level 1 felony if the controlled substance is cocaine, methamphetamine, or a schedule I, II, or III controlled substance; (2) a Level 2 felony if the controlled substance is a schedule IV controlled substance; and (3) a Level 3 felony if the controlled substance is a schedule V controlled substance or a synthetic drug or synthetic drug lookalike substance. Makes conforming amendments.
 Current Status:   3/22/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1382STUDY OF PHARMACY DESERTS. (BROWN C) Defines "pharmacy desert". Urges the legislative council to assign topics to a study committee concerning pharmacy deserts in rural and urban areas of Indiana.
 Current Status:   3/13/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
HB1384CHIROPRACTORS. (BEUMER G) Amends the definition of "chiropractic". Removes certain acts that a chiropractor is prohibited from practicing. Provides that the board may adopt rules establishing health and sanitation standards for dry needling. Provides that accreditation of a chiropractic college for licensure purposes may be by a successor organization of the Accreditation Commission of the Council on Chiropractic Education. Requires that an applicant for a license to practice chiropractic must complete at least 90 semester hours of education after June 30, 2021. Prohibits an individual from using the title "chiropractor" unless the individual is a licensed chiropractor. Allows a chiropractor to perform certain acts and functions to diagnose and treat injuries, conditions, and disorders.
 Current Status:   3/14/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB13ADMINISTRATION OF OVERDOSE INTERVENTION DRUGS. (GLICK S) Provides that community corrections officers and probation officers may administer an overdose intervention drug. Requires community corrections officers and probation officers to report the use of an overdose intervention drug to the emergency ambulance service responsible for reporting the use to the Indiana emergency medical services commission. Requires that persons permitted to administer an overdose intervention drug must receive education and training on drug overdose response and treatment, including the administration of an overdose intervention drug before the person may administer an overdose intervention drug. Provides civil immunity to community corrections officers and probation officers who administer an overdose intervention drug. Provides civil immunity to a person who has an agency relationship with a community corrections officer or probation officer who administers an overdose intervention drug. Makes conforming amendments.
 Current Status:   3/7/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB52LOW THC HEMP EXTRACT. (LONG D) Provides that the Indiana department of state revenue (department) shall revoke a registered retail merchant's certificate if the department finds that the person has been convicted of dealing in marijuana based on the sale of fraudulently labeled low THC hemp extract. Repeals all provisions concerning the cannabidiol registry and a "substance containing cannabidiol" (all added by HEA 1148-2017). Defines "low THC hemp extract" as a product: (1) derived from Cannabis sativa L. that meets the definition of industrial hemp; (2) that contains not more than 0.3% delta-9-THC (including precursors); and (3) that contains no other controlled substances. Establishes testing, packaging, and labeling requirements for the distribution and retail sale of low THC hemp extract, effective July 1, 2018. Provides that a retailer commits dealing in marijuana as a Level 5 felony if: (1) the retailer sells marijuana; (2) the marijuana is packaged in a manner that appears to be low THC extract; and (3) the retailer knows or reasonably should know that the product is marijuana. Makes possession of marijuana a Class A misdemeanor if: (1) the marijuana is packaged in a manner that appears to be low THC hemp extract; and (2) the person knows or reasonably should know that the product is marijuana. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying the regulation of industrial hemp, industrial hemp products, and low THC hemp extract manufacturing.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB74CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES. (YOUNG M) Adds the substance Mexedrone to the definition of "synthetic drug" and adds additional controlled substances to the existing statutory list of depressants, hallucinogens, and opiates classified as schedule I.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB96VETERANS PILOT PROGRAM. (DELPH M) Extends to 2020 the program that provides assistance for certain providers to provide diagnostic testing and hyperbaric oxygen treatment to veterans. (Under current law, the program expires June 30, 2019.) Allows the state department of health to select and approve up to five providers to provide diagnostic testing and hyperbaric oxygen treatment to veterans receiving treatment under the pilot program. (Under current law, only one provider may be selected and approved.) Requires providers to perform services at cost out of the grant amount awarded to the provider. Removes the restriction on when a veteran's injury occurred in order for the veteran to receive treatment under the pilot program. Requires providers to quarterly file a status report concerning the services provided by the provider with the state department of health and the department of veterans' affairs (department). Requires the department, in collaboration with the state department of health, to prepare a final report at the conclusion of the pilot program and transmit the report to the governor, the leadership of the legislative council, the chairperson of the house committee on veterans affairs and public safety, and the chairperson of the senate committee on veterans affairs and the military. Requires the final report to be made available on the department's Internet web site. Provides immunity for providers and supervising physicians of services provided under the pilot program.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB139INVESTIGATION OF OVERDOSE DEATHS. (MERRITT J) Requires the county coroner to do the following if the county coroner reasonably suspects the cause of a person's death to be accidental or intentional overdose of a controlled substance: (1) Obtain any relevant information about the decedent maintained by the INSPECT program. (2) Extract and test certain bodily fluids of the decedent. (3) Report test results to the state department of health (department). (4) Provide the department notice of the decedent's death, including any information related to the controlled substances involved, if any. Authorizes the department to adopt rules. Makes conforming changes. Provides that the coroners training and continuing education fund shall be used for the costs incurred by a county coroner to perform investigations of overdose deaths for the 2018-2019 state fiscal year.
 Current Status:   3/22/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB142MATERNAL MORTALITY REVIEW COMMITTEE. (LEISING J) Requires the state department of health (state department) to establish a statewide maternal mortality review committee (committee) until June 30, 2023, and sets forth membership and duties of the committee. Specifies confidentiality of records reviewed by the committee. Requires a health care provider or health care facility that has a patient who dies of a maternal mortality to report the death to the committee and sets forth immunity provisions for the provider or facility. Allows the committee to review maternal morbidity cases. Specifies records to which the committee may have access. Requires the committee to submit a report to the state department before July 1 of each year concerning the committee's reviews and requires the state department to post the report on the state department's Internet web site and make the report available for public inspection. Provides civil and criminal immunity to committee members in discussing confidential matters before the committee.
 Current Status:   3/13/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB158SCLERAL TATTOOING. (RUCKELSHAUS J) Defines "scleral tattooing". Prohibits the act of performing or offering to perform scleral tattooing. Provides an exception for the act of a licensed health care professional when the act is performed in the scope of the health care professional's practice. Provides that the attorney general: (1) has authority to receive and investigate complaints regarding violations of the statute; (2) may seek civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation of the statute; and (3) may seek an injunction to restrain a person from continuing to violate the statute.
 Current Status:   3/13/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB190HEALTH FACILITY CERTIFICATE OF NEED. (MISHLER R) Requires the office of the secretary of family and social services to cooperate with the state department of health (state department) in the provision of certain health facility information. Amends the expiration of statutes placing certain limitations on the licensure of comprehensive care health facilities and the licensure of comprehensive care beds to the date upon which certain administrative rules take effect. Establishes a comprehensive care health facility certificate of need program administered by the state department. Sets forth certificate of need application requirements and exemptions. Urges the interim study of whether unused or underused facilities at the Logansport State Hospital could feasibly be used as an inpatient treatment facility for Medicaid eligible substance and addictions based treatment.
 Current Status:   3/25/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB221INSPECT PROGRAM. (HOUCHIN E) Allows a dispenser of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or a controlled substance to transmit certain information to the INSPECT program by any electronic method that meets specifications prescribed by the state board of pharmacy (board). Provides that, to the extent considered appropriate by the board, the INSPECT data base must be interoperable with other similar registries operated by federal and state governments. Requires the following practitioners to obtain information about a patient from the data base before prescribing an opioid or benzodiazepine to the patient: (1) A practitioner who has had the information from the data base integrated into the patient's electronic health records. (2) Beginning January 1, 2019, a practitioner who provides services to the patient in the emergency department of a hospital or a pain management clinic. (3) Beginning January 1, 2020, a practitioner who provides services to the patient in a hospital. (4) Beginning January 1, 2021, all practitioners. Provides that a practitioner is not required to obtain information about a patient who is subject to a pain management contract from the INSPECT data base more than once every 90 days. Removes lapsed provisions. Provides that beginning January 1, 2019, a practitioner who is permitted to distribute, dispense, prescribe, conduct research with respect to, or administer ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or a controlled substance in the course of the practitioner's professional practice or research must be certified to receive information from the INSPECT program. Allows a practitioner to request a waiver from the requirement of checking the data base before prescribing an opioid or benzodiazepine if the practitioner does not have access to the Internet at the practitioner's place of business. Requires the Indiana state board of pharmacy to: (1) establish a process for a practitioner to request a waiver; (2) determine whether to grant a practitioner's request for a waiver; and (3) issue a waiver when the board determines a waiver is warranted.
 Current Status:   3/22/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB223INFORMATION PROVIDED BY HEALTH PRACTITIONERS. (HEAD R) Requires specified licensed health practitioners to provide certain information related to the practitioner's work, including the practitioner's work with Medicaid patients, when renewing the practitioner's professional license online. Requires the Indiana professional licensing agency to: (1) compile the information collected into an annual report; (2) post a copy of the report on the agency's Internet web site; and (3) submit the report to the office of Medicaid policy and planning, the department of workforce development, the commission on improving the status of children, the legislative council, and the office of the attorney general. Specifies notice requirements for network health care providers that make referrals via telephone to out-of-network health care providers.
 Current Status:   3/16/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB224BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES. (HEAD R) Allows up to 50% of the supervised experience hours required for licensure as the following to be accounted for through virtual supervision by the appropriate supervisor: (1) Clinical social worker. (2) Mental health counselor. (3) Marriage and family therapist. (4) Addiction counselor. Reduces the required number of face to face client contact hours for a marriage and family therapist license from 500 to 400 face to face client contact hours. Requires an applicant for licensure as a mental health counselor or mental health counselor associate to complete a clinical practicum, an internship, or field experience in a counseling setting of at least 700 clock hours, including at least 66 hours of face to face supervision. (Current law requires an applicant for licensure as a mental health counselor or mental health counselor associate to complete a clinical practicum, internship, or field experience in a counseling setting of at least 1,000 clock hours, including at least 100 hours of face to face supervision.)
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB225CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS. (HEAD R) Establishes continuing education requirements for licensed health care practitioners who apply for a controlled substances registration. Provides that the continuing education requirements expire July 1, 2025.
 Current Status:   3/13/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB230SUICIDE PREVENTION. (HEAD R) Provides that the division of mental health and addiction is responsible for the development and provision of a research based training program for health care providers concerning suicide assessment, training, and management that is: (1) demonstrated to be an effective or promising program; and (2) recommended by the Indiana Suicide Prevention Network Advisory Council. Requires emergency medical technicians to complete a research based training program concerning suicide assessment, treatment, and management that is: (1) demonstrated to be an effective or promising program; and (2) recommended by the Indiana Suicide Prevention Network Advisory Council. Requires that teachers and other school employees receive at least two hours of research based youth suicide awareness and prevention training from a program that is: (1) demonstrated to be an effective or promising program; and (2) recommended by the Indiana Suicide Prevention Network Advisory Council.
 Current Status:   3/13/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB240EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS. (LEISING J) Provides that a dwelling that is exempt from the Indiana fair housing law is not subject to the requirements applicable to emotional support animals. Defines "emotional support animal". Specifies who may use an emotional support animal, who may prescribe an emotional support animal, and when an individual may be prescribed an emotional support animal. Provides that an individual with a disability that is not readily apparent who submits a request for an emotional support animal that falsely suggests the individual has a disability that entitles the individual to the use of an emotional support animal in a dwelling commits a Class A infraction.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB264RAPE KITS. (CRIDER M) Defines "kit" as the standard medical forensic examination kit for victims of a sex crime developed by the state police department. Requires the statewide sexual assault response team advisory council (council) to prepare a report regarding: (1) the feasibility of creating a kit tracking and testing data base; (2) the identity of the supervising agency or entity responsible for creating, operating, managing, and maintaining the kit tracking and testing data base; and (3) possible sources of funding for the kit tracking and testing data base. Requires the council to submit a report to the legislative council in an electronic format not later than December 1, 2018. Defines certain terms. Makes conforming amendments.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB290WORKER'S COMPENSATION. (FORD J) Establishes a time frame for the payment of compensation under a settlement agreement, a permanent partial impairment agreement, and an award of compensation ordered by a single hearing member of the worker's compensation board (board). Provides that an employer that fails to make a timely payment is subject to a civil penalty. Requires an employer that has mobile or remote employees to convey information about worker's compensation coverage to the employer's employees in an electronic format or in the same manner as the employer conveys other employment related information. Allows the electronic filing of certain documents with the board. Provides that a permanently, totally disabled worker must reapply to the second injury fund for a wage replacement benefit every three years instead of every 150 weeks. Requires the reporting of workplace injuries needing medical attention beyond first aid instead of injuries causing an absence from work for more than one day. Provides that reporting requirements for workplace injuries are intended to be consistent with the recording requirements set out in the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration's regulations. Changes from $50 per employee to $100 per day the civil penalty for an employer's failure to provide proof of worker's compensation coverage. Revises the definition of employer to include corporations, limited liability companies, limited liability partnerships, and other entities that have common control and ownership. Makes conforming amendments for occupational diseases compensation. Establishes the assigned risk plan (plan) administered by the worker's compensation rating bureau (bureau). Provides that the plan may be substantially modified or eliminated only as the general assembly provides by statute. Removes the requirement for representation in the management of the bureau by stock companies and nonstock companies. Urges the legislative council to assign to an appropriate interim study committee the task of studying increases to the benefit schedules for worker's compensation and occupational diseases compensation.
 Current Status:   3/25/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB301CRIMINAL HISTORY CHECKS FOR HOME HEALTH WORKERS. (RAATZ J) Provides that an expanded criminal history check may be used instead of certain background checks and criminal history checks for home health care workers. Prohibits an expanded criminal history check to include certain criminal history information. Provides that an expanded criminal history check satisfies the division of aging's criminal history requirements.
 Current Status:   3/19/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB331IMPLEMENTATION OF FEDERAL FOOD SAFETY REGULATIONS. (LEISING J) Amends the definition of "federal act" in the title governing health to recognize the amendments to the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (federal act). Adds a definition of "produce farm" in the title governing health. Allows the state health commissioner or the commissioner's authorized representative to enter and inspect certain produce farms. Requires certain produce farms to comply with certain federal requirements. Provides that the department may suspend the requirement to comply with the federal act if the federal government does not provide sufficient funds for the department to administer and enforce the federal requirements. Provides that the department shall suspend the requirement to comply with the federal act if the federal government does not provide any funds for the department to administer and enforce the federal requirements.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB340REGULATION OF ABORTION AND NEWBORN SAFETY DEVICES. (HOLDMAN T) Makes various changes to the abortion law concerning abortion clinic license applications, abortion clinic inspections, abortion inducing drugs, abortion complications, the provision of information to a woman seeking an abortion, and the collection of data by the state department of health. Specifies under the safe haven law that it is a defense to a claim of neglect of a dependent if the individual left the child in a newborn safety device that is located at a fire department, including a volunteer fire department, that meets specified requirements. Provides civil immunity for a fire department that operates a newborn safety device for an act or omission relating to the device: (1) if the device meets specified requirements; and (2) unless the act or omission constitutes gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. Makes a technical correction.
 Current Status:   3/25/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB360PERINATAL LEVELS OF CARE DESIGNATION CERTIFICATION. (CHARBONNEAU E) Requires the state department of health to establish a program to certify perinatal levels of care designations for licensed hospitals and birthing centers that provide birthing services. Specifies requirements that must be met in order to operate as a perinatal center. Allows perinatal centers to perform peer review for the perinatal center, other hospitals, and other birthing centers that provide birthing services.
 Current Status:   3/7/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB363FSSA MATTERS. (CHARBONNEAU E) Corrects outdated references to the "division of aging and rehabilitative services" to refer instead to the "division of disability and rehabilitative services". Removes references to home care services from the long term care ombudsman program. Removes the requirement that the long term care ombudsman (ombudsman) report the findings of the long term care ombudsman office (office) to the complainant. Allows the office to disclose records, documents, and findings of an investigated case to certain individuals with the informed consent of the resident of the long term care facility or the resident's legal guardian. Specifies the manner in which consent can be given by a resident. Specifies information to which the ombudsman shall be given access by a long term care facility. Changes the persons that must be provided with the ombudsman's annual report. Requires the office to provide independent legal counsel to the ombudsman for specified matters. Specifies grievances and complaints that must be addressed by the office. Repeals language concerning: (1) the admission and placement requirements concerning Evansville State Psychiatric Treatment Center; (2) state institution wage agreements; and (3) a statistical report requirement concerning state institutions.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB369WORKERS' COMPENSATION DRUG FORMULARY. (HEAD R) Except during a medical emergency, prohibits workers' compensation and occupational disease compensation reimbursement for drugs specified in the ODG Workers' Compensation Drug Formulary Appendix A published by MCG Health as "N" drugs. Permits a prescribing physician to request to prescribe an "N" drug. Provides that, if the employer approves the request, the prescribing physician may prescribe the "N" drug. Provides that, if the employer does not approve the request, the employer shall: (1) shall send the request to a third party that is certified by the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission to make a determination concerning the request; and (2) notify the prescribing physician and the employee of the third party's determination not more than five business days after receiving the request. Provides that, if the third party's determination is to deny the request, the employer shall notify the prescribing physician and the employee, and the employee may apply to the worker's compensation board for a final determination concerning the third party's determination. Provides that, if the employer fails to notify the physician and the employee of the third party's determination, the prescribing physician's request is considered approved, and reimbursement of the "N" drug is authorized.
 Current Status:   3/25/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB410ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSES. (CHARBONNEAU E) Replaces the term "advanced practice nurse" with "advanced practice registered nurse" throughout the Indiana Code. Requires the Indiana state board of nursing to adopt rules concerning educational and certification requirements that an advanced practice registered nurse must meet to be authorized to prescribe drugs.
 Current Status:   3/16/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB419PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL LICENSES. (DORIOT B) Provides that an agency or political subdivision may require verification of an individual's eligibility for a professional or occupational license, by requiring the individual to verify under penalty of perjury that the individual is: (1) authorized by the federal government to work in the United States; and (2) executing the verification only for the purpose of applying for a professional or occupational license issued by the state agency or political subdivision. Provides that an individual who is authorized by the federal government to work in the United States is eligible for a professional or occupational license issued by a state agency or political subdivision if the individual meets all the requirements, other than the requirement under 8 USC 1621(a), to obtain or renew the professional or occupational license. Provides that a unit does not have the power to license, register, or certify a person to practice the person's profession or occupation within the unit if the occupation or profession is subject to licensure, registration, or certification under the Indiana Code. Provides that this prohibition does not apply to: (1) registration for particular projects for the alteration, construction, demolition, or repair of a building or other work on real property required under an ordinance or rule adopted under local government law; (2) the ability to revoke, suspend, or impose additional conditions on a permit or registration previously given if the person holding the permit or registered has performed substandard work or has otherwise violated any condition of the permit or registration; or (3) when the unit determines the establishment and enforcement of health and safety standards for the occupation or profession is appropriate and necessary to protect the public.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB421ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES. (BECKER V) Requires the office of Medicaid policy and planning (office) to reimburse for assisted living services provided to a Medicaid waiver recipient who is aged or disabled when the service is provided by a residential care facility or a housing with services establishment. Allows for Medicaid reimbursement for any home and community based services provided to a Medicaid recipient beginning on the date of the individual's application. Sets forth requirements and limitations concerning assisted living services provided in a home and community based services setting. Requires the office to implement a process for and resume enrollment of a provider with specialized and secure settings to become a provider under a home and community based service program. Sets forth timing requirements for the division of aging to issue written findings after inspections for compliance with home and community based service requirements.
 Current Status:   3/21/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
SB431IMMUNITY FOR REPORTS OF SUSPECTED ABUSE OR NEGLECT. (BROWN L) Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for: (1) a person who assists with or participates; and (2) a health care provider who provides professional intervention; in an investigation by the department of child services resulting from a report that a child may be a victim of child abuse or neglect. Provides that the immunity provisions do not apply (1) to actions brought against qualified health care providers for medical malpractice; or (2) for a person who has acted with gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. Provides that: (1) an adult protective services unit conducting an investigation; or (2) a department of child services (department) caseworker conducting an assessment; who observes, or has reason to believe, that an animal is a victim of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect may make a report to the local law enforcement agency or local animal control officer. Provides that: (1) an adult protective services unit; or (2) a department caseworker; who makes a report of animal cruelty, abandonment, or neglect is immune from civil and criminal liability. Makes conforming amendments.
 Current Status:   3/15/2018 - SIGNED BY GOVERNOR
 
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