Tracking List: 2024 AzNA Legislative Web Report


HB2035 - Insurance; claims; appeals; provider credentialing
Sponsor: Rep. David L. Cook (R)
Summary: Sets out a series of new requirements that a “health care insurer” (defined) must provide to a “health care provider” (defined) in the event that they deny a health care services claim either in whole or in part. The new requirements include providing the health care provider with a phone number and email address of someone equipped to answer questions about the claim denial. At the request of the health care provider, the insurer must respond within 15 days with the following information: detailed reasoning around why a claim was denied due to lack of medical necessity if applicable, the health care provider’s right to dispute the decision of the insurer along with the details needed to navigate the insurer’s internal grievance process including deadlines and the health care provider’s right to request a hearing if the internal grievance process is unresolved, and direction towards appropriate regulatory authorities if the insurer falls outside of the jurisdiction of the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions. Requires insurers to provide within 30 days a written response to a filed grievance unless a longer timeframe is agreed to. Outlines the requirements of the written response and requirements for a claims dispute hearing. Reduces the number of calendar days that an insurer has to conclude the process of credentialing an applicant within their billing system from 100 calendar days to 45 calendar days and outlines requirements for confirmation of receipt of an application for credentialing. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/19/2024 
S - DPA   - Senate Appropriations
Ch. 85, Laws 2024 (HB2045 - Dangerous drugs; definition; xylazine)
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: Modifies the list of “dangerous drugs” (defined) within the criminal code to include xylazine. Exempts licensed veterinarians who lawfully acquire and administer any dangerous drug in the course of their professional and legal practice. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/08/2024 
G - Signed
HB2049 - Chiropractic care; diagnostic imaging
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: Adds imaging to the list of healthcare practices that chiropractors may provide.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/10/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
Ch. 24, Laws 2024 (HB2093 - Emergency services; prudent layperson; definition)
Sponsor: Rep. Barbara Parker (R)
Summary: Adds language to the definition of emergency services that allows a prudent layperson with standard medical knowledge to attest to the medical condition and symptoms of a person suffering from a medical condition warranting emergency intervention. Includes mental health and the potential of the person in need causing harm to others as part of the jeopardy factors to determine if emergency services are warranted. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/29/2024 
G - Signed
Ch. 26, Laws 2024 (HB2113 - Medical assistants; scope of practice)
Sponsor: Rep. Julie Willoughby (R)
Summary: Permits a medical assistant to record the findings of a Doctor of Medicine, communicate medical advice, interpretation of test results and documented orders, and obtain, process and communicate medication or procedure prior authorization as documented and ordered by a Doctor of Medicine, Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/29/2024 
G - Signed
Ch. 132, Laws 2024 (HB2137 - Developmental delays; infants; toddlers (Infants; toddlers; developmental delays))
Sponsor: Rep. Julie Willoughby (R)
Summary: Requires that Intergovernmental Agreements developed and implemented by the Department of Economic Security (ADES) include options available to a family based on assessed needs and outcomes of infants or toddlers as part of the initial Individualized Family Service Plan (Plan) for early intervention programs and services for toddlers with developmental delays. Requires the ADES to inform the family if a service option is not covered by early intervention programs in part or whole and to maintain compliance with federal law. Requires the ADES to develop a community resources guide in electronic format and defines the information that must be included in the guide, including mandatory updates, and requires the guide be made available to all involved parties. Permits a family to engage an audiologist pursuant to state law and that the ADES provide all appropriate hearing and speech development services or equipment, and to develop a process for parents to choose services in a natural environment and for families referred to the program who request a different service coordinator. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/10/2024 
G - Signed
HB2139 - Medical records; minors; confidentiality; consent
Sponsor: Rep. Julie Willoughby (R)
Summary: Grants access to a minor patient’s medical records by a parent or guardian, unless the minor patient indicates by written authorization to the healthcare provide that the minor patient’s medical records are privileged and confidential and shall not be disclosed to the minor patient’s parent(s) or guardian. Requires a healthcare provide to inform the minor patient about the option to keep medical records privileged and confidential. Stipulates that an emancipated minor patient’s medical records are privileged and confidential.
Position: Amend
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2171 - Health care workforce council; fund
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: Directs that 10% of the tax paid in compliance on premiums received for accident and health insurance and Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System contracted coverage, be given to the Arizona Health Care Workforce Investment Fund. Establishes the Arizona Health Care Workforce Advisory Council to address workforce shortages and outlines the framework for membership on the Council. Establishes the Arizona Health Care Workforce Investment Fund and enables the Director to administer the fund. Directs the Council to meet, beginning July 1, 2027 and each July 1 afterwards to make recommendations on allocations of the Fund. Directs the Council to prepare and submit an annual report with recommendations to the Governor, legislature and Secretary of State. Outlines how Fund monies can be used and enables funds eligible for federal matching funds to be used in that manner. Stipulates that Fund monies are exempt from any lapsing of appropriations processes or laws.
Position: Support
Last Action:
02/05/2024 
H - HELD - House Health & Human Services
Ch. 28, Laws 2024 (HB2174 - School personnel; emergency glucagon administration)
Sponsor: Rep. Beverly Pingerelli (R)
Summary: Permits school district governing boards and charter school governing bodies to request an annual standing order for glucagon from authorized medical professionals and when a standing order is in place, a school may stock glucagon at school sites for emergency administration by appropriately licensed medical personnel. Permits a school district to accept monetary donations or apply for grants to purchase glucagon or may participate in third party programs to obtain glucagon at no cost, fair market, or reduced price. Requires any “employee or contractor” (defined) implementing a Diabetes Medical Management Plan, in whole or part, pursuant to state law, to provide the school with a written statement signed by a licensed health professional that the person administering the plan has received proper training pursuant to state law. Requires that the training requirements in this legislation be renewed at regular intervals prescribed by the school district governing board or charger school governing body. Permits appropriately licensed medical personnel to train professional and voluntary diabetes care assistants and provides immunity from civil liability for the consequences of good faith adoption and implementation of diabetes management policies or procedures. Permits glucagon to be purchased, stocked and administered as needed by authorized and certified personnel and exempts the administration of glucagon from standard medical processes such as physical or mental health status examination. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/29/2024 
G - Signed
HB2183 - Parental rights; medical records
Sponsor: Rep. Julie Willoughby (R)
Summary: Requires a health care entity to provide a parent equivalent access to any electronic portal and any other health delivery platform, written and electronic medical records for services not requiring parental consent unless prohibited by law or the parent is the subject of a law enforcement investigation of a crime committed against the minor child and a law enforcement official requests that the information not be released. AS VETOED BY GOVERNOR. In her veto message, the Governor stated that this bill could put the health and safety of vulnerable Arizonans at risk.
Position: Oppose
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
G - Vetoed
HB2187 - Health professionals; title use; prohibitions
Sponsor: Rep. Barbara Parker (R)
Summary: Establishes the license and title designations that must be used in advertising, professional communications and identifications in a clinical setting for physicians licensed and is enrolled in a residency program, or is certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties or the American Osteopathic Association Certifying Board or who is board eligible, licensed Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) and Physician Assistants. Prohibits an APRN from using certain titles either alone or in combination with any nursing title. Permits health professionals to use state approved titles and designations. Requires health professionals to use only the applicable license set forth in this bill and may not use misleading terms or false representations, and must include the health professional name in all advertising. Allows a health professional to use a title or titles prescribed in state law, earned in a clinical setting, or accurately describes their qualifications and credentials. Enables the Attorney General to investigate alleged infractions of this bill. Titles the bill the Medical Title Transparency and Patient Protection Act. 
Position: Amend
Last Action:
02/12/2024 
H - HELD - House Health & Human Services
HB2226 - Nursing care institutions; advisory council
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Establishes an 8 member Nursing Care Institution Advisory Council to advise the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) on oversight matters, issues facing nursing care institution residents and their families and to foster communications with the public regarding nursing care institutions. Directs the Council to review and analyze nursing care institution inspection and survey results, and the ADHS’ adherence to federal guidance regarding state inspections and surveys; review public comments, consult with the State Long-Term Ombudsman as needed, evaluate data from ADHS, the Auditor General and office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman to identify areas of concern, develop policies and procedures to address quality of care, resident and staff safety and overall performance of the institutions located in Arizona. Establishes that public member terms on the Council are five years except that, of the members first appointed, two serve three-year terms and two serve four years. Directs the Council to meet on a quarterly basis, that members will serve without compensation but are eligible for reimbursement, that the Council is to receive cooperation with any state, county or municipal department, board, commission or agency as needed, and that the Council is to prepare annual report and submit it to the Governor and Legislature covering its analysis of DHS’ oversight and inspections with findings and recommendations.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2227 - Staff ratios; nursing care institutions
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Sets the minimum “direct care staff member” (defined) to resident ratios for nursing care institutions, apart from any other staffing requirements required by law. Grants an exemption from any increase in direct care staff to resident ratios for nine consecutive shifts after an expansion of the resident census by the Nursing Care Institution. Mandates that the minimum direct care staff to resident ratios be carried to the hundredth place, that if a ratio is not a whole number, the ratio number be rounded up, that if the partial ratio is at least fifty-one hundredths, and that all official computations be based on the midnight census for the day the shift begins. Exempts staff other than direct care staff from the staff to resident ratio and pediatric long-term care facilities. 
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2228 - AHCCCS; complex rehabilitation technology
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Requires the Arizona health care cost containment system administration to establish rules and policies for “complex rehabilitation technology” (defined) products and services that create a “healthcare common procedure coding system,” establish supplier standards, require complex medical needs patients receiving a complex rehabilitation manual or power wheelchair or seating component to be examined by a “qualified medical care professional” (defined) and a “qualified complex rehabilitation technology professional” (defined,) establish payment policies and rates for complex medical rehabilitation technology, exempt complex rehabilitation technology coding common procedure coding system billing codes from inclusion in any bidding, selective contracting or similar initiative, stipulate that contractors adhere to all complex rehabilitation technology rules and policies, adapt to emerging challenges for complex rehabilitation technology patients.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2229 - Health care institutions; education; abuse
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Requires the Department of Health Services (DHS) and Department of Economic Security to jointly create an educational training program for individuals who are employed caring for vulnerable adults. Directs each department that the curriculum should cover the signs of neglect and abuse, including sexual abuse, responsibilities of the caregiver, requirement to report suspected cases of neglect or abuse with contact information, and educational materials for the family of the person who is vulnerable. Details the different agencies, associations and organizations that are to be included in developing the training curriculum. Requires, beginning January 1, 2025 that licensed health care institutions and operators train their existing and new employees in the training curriculum, and complete an annual refresher in program content. Requires health care organizations post in a conspicuous place information on recognizing and reporting neglect and abuse, prohibit retaliatory actions against persons that report suspected neglect or abuse. Contains an emergency clause.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2230 - AHCCCS; outpatient services
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Repeals the criteria that outpatient health services do not include speech therapy for eligible persons who are at least 21 years of age.
Position: Support
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2231 - Nursing care institutions; medical directors
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Requires that a Medical Director of a nursing care institution be certified as a Medical Director by the American Board of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine or an equivalent organization as specified by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS.) Requires that if a nursing care institution contracts with an uncertified Medical Director, that person must become certified within five years of the date of the contract or initial hire. Requires that a Medical Director hired before January 2, 2024 must become certified as a Medical Director before January 1, 2029. Requires a nursing care institution to submit to ADHS at the point of hire the Medical Director’s resume and certification status and if not certified, the expected date of certification. Requires a nursing care institution to notify ADHS of any changes to its Medical Director within ten calendar days after the change. Sets as a deadline November 1, 2024 for all nursing care institutions to provide to ADHS the resume and proof of certification or progress towards certification of its Medical Director.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2237 - Developmental disabilities; definition
Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer L. Longdon (D)
Summary: Adds genetic and chromosomal conditions to the definition to “disability” (defined.) Adds “Prader-Willi Syndrome” (defined) to the listing of cognitive disabilities, genetic or chromosomal conditions as part of the criteria to meet the definition of “developmental disability” (defined.)
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/16/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2312 - Health professionals; website; time limitation
Sponsor: Rep. Patricia Contreras (D)
Summary: Increases the amount of time a Health Profession Regulatory Board disciplinary actions against a licensee or certificate holder shall be available on the board's website to 25 years. Removes the prohibition of concern and advisory letters on the website and the option of the public gaining access to those letters by personal request. Removes “non disciplinary actions and orders” from the mandatory statement on a Health Professions Regulatory Board stating that a person may obtain public records by contacting the board directly.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2317 - Sober living homes (Continuing care; automated external defibrillators)
Sponsor: Rep. Matt Gress (R)
Summary: Requires the Arizona Department of Health Resources establish policies for the licensure of “sober living homes” (defined), replacing “residences” in state law. Stipulates that the policies include the handling of monies, procedures to be implemented in the event of the issuance of a Cease and Desist letter, a suspension or revocation of licensure, adherence to local codes and regulations, and family notification procedures. Establishes licensure minimum requirements for sober living facilities, including the documentation of compliance with local rules and regulations, associated required licenses and liability rules governing health care institutions that are associated with unlicensed sober living homes. Establishes the criteria for licensure, inspections, complaint processing and response, investigation into noncompliance with state law, penalties and sanctions for certain acts, sanction and response notification requirements, reporting and response procedures, investigation requirements as it pertains to third party contracts and public and municipal notification requirements for homes under investigation. Sets departmental reporting requirements to the legislature, including deadlines.  AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - Senate Minority Caucus - Y
HB2411 - Insurance; cost sharing; breast examinations
Sponsor: Rep. David L. Cook (R)
Summary: Health care services organization, hospital service corporation, medical service organization, or group or blanket disability insurer, that issues, amends, delivers or renews a subscription contract, an evidence of coverage, or a policy after January 1, 2025, may not impose “cost sharing” (defined) requirements for “diagnostic breast examination” (defined) and “supplemental breast examination” (defined.) Any of the above that provides a subscription contract, an evidence of coverage, or a policy to a subscriber or customer that is intended to qualify as a high deductible health plan as defined in USC 233(c) (2) may impose cost sharing requirements for diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations and for items or services that are classified as preventative care until the minimum deductible is met.    
Position: Support
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
Ch. 95, Laws 2024 (HB2424 - Licensed health aides)
Sponsor: Rep. Julie Willoughby (R)
Summary: Adds “by affinity or consanguinity” to the definition of “licensed health aide” as relates to family members and includes people who perform “routine ventilator care” under their scope of practice to the same definition. Designates people with the same supervision requirements as Certified Nursing Assistants under the definition of “licensed health aide.” Permits an applicant to allow their prospective employer to discuss their application with the Arizona State Board of Nursing. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/08/2024 
G - Signed
HB2446 - Dietitian nutritionists; licensure
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: The Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) is required to license persons who apply for and possess all qualifications required to the practice of dietetics and nutrition, and to adopt a scope of practice for licensed dietitian nutritionists consistent with that adopted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The ADHS Director is authorized to appoint an advisory committee to collaborate with and assist the director to perform these duties, and Committee membership is specified. The ADHS Director is authorized to prescribe and collect fees for licensure. Establishes licensure requirements for dietitian nutritionists. Establishes civil penalties for violations. Outlines what a licensed dietitian nutritionist may order in a hospital or nonhospital healthcare institution and the circumstances under which they can issue orders. Defines licensing, renewal, conduct and penalty requirements. Provides for injunctive remedies to enforce this legislation. Exempts the legislation from rulemaking for one year after the effective date and contains legislative intent. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
06/14/2024 
S - Referred to Committee - Rules - Senate Rules
HB2448 - School-based health centers; requirements
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: Appropriates $3,000,000 from the state general fund to the school-based health center grant program via the Arizona Department of Education (ADE.) Permits a school district or charter school to contract with a health care provider, health system, or community partner, to establish a school based Health Center in or near a school facility for the purpose of providing services beyond the scope of school nursing services, provided the center is a separate legal entity, student participation is voluntary, the school district or charter school has not offered an incentive for student participation, it provides comprehensive primary health care services during school hours to students, in compliance with state laws, all services are provided by a licensed healthcare professional, accurate medical records are maintained in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, and any other federal regulations, it accepts payment for services through medical billing, private pay, and financial assistance, it provides health care services to patients regardless of their ability to pay, all employees of the center are subject to fingerprint check or fingerprint clearance card requirements per state law, students medical privacy is protected and the center does not perform any abortion services. Permits a healthcare professional in a school-based Health Center to provide hearing evaluation and vision screening, basic first aid, contact “parent(s)” (defined) if a student is ill or injured, coordinate emergency services, dispense over-the-counter medications, and dispense prescription medication according to the prescribing healthcare professional’s instructions, and prior consent from the student's parent(s) has been received for the dispensing of the prescription medicine. Requires verbal or written informed consent from the patient or the patient's health care decision-maker before providing telehealth services. Requires prior written or verbal consent from the student's health care decision maker, and if permission is received through a telehealth visit, the parent's identification verification, for the Health Center to provide mental health evaluation or treatment, diagnosing or treating a sexually transmitted infection, substance abuse counseling or treatment, pregnancy testing, prenatal care, or providing contraception including emergency contraception or vaccines including immunization against the human papillomavirus. Requires that for all student telehealth visits the health care professional administering the visit provide a full summary of the appointment and append it to the student's medical record as well as provide a copy of the summary to the student's parent. Requires the Health Center to provide to the student's parent all pertinent student written records, electronic records, and electronic accounts that are maintained by the school-based Health Center including counseling, psychological, medication, clinical, health and immunization records. Prohibits any school district or charter school that has established a school-based Health Center from entering into any contract or agreement including an agreement with a grant program, that requires the school district or charter schools to violate this Act. Allows a student's parent to bring an action against a school-based Health Center in the Superior Court of the county in which the school district or charter school is located for failure to comply with any of the provisions in this Act. Establishes the school-based Health Center grant program within the ADE and directs the ADE to adopt rules and policies to implement and manage the grant program, including the application process, award criteria, and reporting requirements.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2449 - Medication; authorization; mental illness (Mental health conditions; medications; prohibitions)
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: Prohibits requiring prior authorization and “step therapy protocol” (defined) for valid prescription drug coverage for the treatment of a “serious mental health condition” (defined) as defined by law and provided the medication is on the Approved Behavioral Health Drug list and used in compliance with US FDA recommendations. Requires the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to ensure the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee reviews any US FDA approved drugs for the treatment of serious mental health conditions and outlines those conditions. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - DPA   - Senate Appropriations
HB2451 - Marijuana; advertising; restrictions
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: Prohibits a marijuana establishment or nonprofit medical marijuana dispensary from advertising to individuals under 21 years of age, on public transportation or publicly funded organizations, or electronically, unless the advertiser has reliable evidence that over 71.6% of the audience is over the age of 21. Requires all advertising to contain a warning that marijuana is for adults and that persons using the product should ensure that they keep the product away from children. Prohibits advertising on a billboard within 1,000 feet, if in the line of sight, from a childcare center, church, public park, public playground or public or private school that provides instruction to students from preschool through grade 12. Provides that violations of this part of law give the advertiser 30 days to rectify the violation. Prohibits any advertisement for the potency of a product or tetrahydrocannabinol levels of marijuana or marijuana products. Prohibits any establishment that is not a marijuana establishment or nonprofit medical marijuana dispensary from advertising marijuana, products containing tetrahydrocannabinol or marijuana paraphernalia. Requires three-fourths of the legislature to take effect. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
06/14/2024 
S - RETAINED - Senate Committee of the Whole
HB2453 - AHCCCS; naturopathic physicians
Sponsor: Rep. Steve Montenegro (R)
Summary: For the purpose of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), to meet the definition of “primary care practitioner”, nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives must be licensed per state law. The effective date is contingent on the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approving naturopathic physicians as service providers by October 2, 2027, at which point the effective date becomes October 1 of the following year. Requires AHCCCS to notify the Arizona Legislative Council in writing before November 2, 2027 the date that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approved the Act, or if there was no response or if the request was denied. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/19/2024 
S - DP   - Senate Appropriations
Ch. 96, Laws 2024 (HB2480 - Group homes; random drug screening)
Sponsor: Rep. Barbara Parker (R)
Summary: Requires the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to develop and implement policies and procedures to conduct random drug screenings of employees at group foster homes on a quarterly basis that comply with state law pertaining to the drug testing of employees. Prohibits a group foster home employee from having contact with any child living at the home before an initial drug screening. Permits the ADHS to drug screen any employee involved in an accident or incident that injures a child and requires the home to submit the results of random drug screenings to the ADHS within 48 hours of receiving the results. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/08/2024 
G - Signed
HB2484 - Schools; health care services; posting
Sponsor: Rep. Barbara Parker (R)
Summary: Requires each school district or charter school that provides routine health care services to students in the school's health office to provide to a parent or guardian the health care credentials, if any, of each individual who provides the services, but does not require release of personally identifiable information. AS PASSED SENATE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/03/2024 
H - House Minority Caucus - Y
HB2491 - Administrative rules oversight committee; dissent
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: Permits a person to file a formal complaint with the Administrative Rules Oversight Committee if an existing statute, rule, or practice are inconsistent with legislative intent or beyond the official and legal scope of an Agency’s mission. Requires the Secretary of State (SOS) to publish a letter of dissent with the corresponding rule in the code and register. Requires the Committee to receive and consider complaints regarding a statute, rule, agency practice alleged to constitute rules or policy statements that conflict with legislative intent and an Agency’s statutory authority. Permits the Committee to prepare a dissent letter expressing disagreement with a statute, rule or agency practice or action that is alleged to be duplicative or inconsistent with legislative intent or beyond an Agency’s scope of authority, to be filed with the SOS and placed in the code, pursuant to state laws and provisions. . AS VETOED BY GOVERNOR. In her veto message, the Governor stated that this bill was unnecessary.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
04/23/2024 
G - Vetoed
HB2494 - Nursing board; licensure; appropriation
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: Appropriates $100,000 and one FTE from the Board of Nursing Fund for use to issues licensure or certification for an Advance Practice Registered Nurse and exempts the funds from all lapsing fund provisions. Permits a Registered Nurse to be appointed to the Arizona State Board of Nursing if no qualified candidate per the requirements defining membership on the Board can be found within 90 days of a vacancy. Requires the Board issue a license or certificate to an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or Registered Nurse within five business days of application receipt if the person holds a current license or certificate to practice as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse in another state or territory of the United States and their license otherwise complies with state law per this legislation. Requires the Board to acknowledge to the applicant receipt of the application and its date and within five days of the applicant meeting all the license or certification requirements, to issue a Notice of Licensure or certification, or an explanation of the reasons the licensure or certification is not being granted. Requires a person licensed or certified in this manner to adhere to all laws regulating their practice in this state and other jurisdictions as applicable and authorizes them to perform work in the manner described for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/26/2024 
S - DP   - Senate Appropriations
HB2513 - AHCCCS; preventative dental care
Sponsor: Rep. Amish Shah (D)
Summary: Adds preventative dental care to the list of services covered under the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) for persons over 21 years of age. Includes preventative dental care as a service that is ineligible for Hospital Assessment Fund monies.
Position: Support
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2517 - AHCCCS; obesity treatment; medication
Sponsor: Rep. Amish Shah (D)
Summary: Requires the AHCCS to provide comprehensive coverage to members for the treatment of obesity including coverage for prevention and wellness, nutrition counseling, intensive behavioral therapy, bariatric surgery and united states food and drug administration-approved anti-obesity medication. coverage criteria for US FDA-approved antiobesity medication provided under this subsection may not be more restrictive than the US FDA-approved indications for the use of those medications. The administration may use the system's prior authorization process to determine the medical necessity for the treatment of obesity. If the medical necessity determinations are made in the same manner as those determinations are made for the treatment of any other illness, condition or disorder. Requires the administration to provide notice to members regarding the coverage required.
Position: Support
Last Action:
01/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2568 - Sexual assault survivor; provider choice
Sponsor: Rep. Nancy Gutierrez (D)
Summary: In addition to the rights enumerated in the Arizona Constitution’s victims' bill of rights, a sexual assault victim has the right to select the nurse examiner who will examine the victim from a list of qualified examiners.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/23/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
Ch. 123, Laws 2024 (HB2582 - Pharmacists; collaborative practice agreements)
Sponsor: Rep. John Gillette (R)
Summary: “Provider” definition in the context of a collaborative practice agreement with a pharmacist, is expanded to include a certified midwife or a licensed physician assistant. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/09/2024 
G - Signed
Ch. 178, Laws 2024 (HB2599 - Health care appeals)
Sponsor: Rep. David Livingston (R)
Summary: Requires a Utilization Review Agent to develop and implement a plan covering the criteria that applies to Utilization Reviews “Adverse Determinations” (defined) as outlined. Provides guidelines and rules for insurers regarding adverse determinations and appeals. Permits a member who was denied a service that has already been provided to initiate an appeal. Includes questions of appropriateness, including health care setting, level of care or effectiveness of a covered benefit, in the review and appeal processes. Clarifies rules for adverse determinations of services already provided. Adds grandfather clauses. Defines “individual plan", "health care setting", ”advanced practice registered nurse”, “physician or other health care professional”, and “provider”. Requires additional items for the independent review organization to consider for claims or requests for services denied for reasons other than as experimental or investigational. Requires a Utilization Review Agent to select a provider for a member's appeal of certain adverse determinations. Requires that the rationale for a decision be included in any written decision. Permits a member to appeal or to pursue an external review if that member has exhausted an insurer's internal review process. Defines the external review process. Requires a health care insurer and an independent review organization to maintain all records related to an internal and external appeals process and exception requests for at least three years after the completion of the appeals process or exception request process. Effective January 1, 2025. (More). AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
04/23/2024 
G - Signed
HB2642 - Emergency contraception; standing order
Sponsor: Rep. Amish Shah (D)
Summary: A licensed physician or nurse practitioner who is authorized by law to prescribe drugs is allowed to issue a standing prescription drug order authorizing the dispensing of emergency contraception. The Arizona Department of Health Services is required to designate emergency contraception that may be used with a standing prescription drug order based on an evaluation of the drug's safety and efficacy.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2643 - Schools; cardiac emergency response plans
Sponsor: Rep. Amish Shah (D)
Summary: Requires any public or private school with grades 6 through 12, that provides instruction, sponsors an athletic team or sports program to have an automated, external, defibrillator on campus and at each school sponsored athletic event and defines the location, access, signage and operational requirements that govern the positioning, use and maintenance of the defibrillator. Requires every coach to complete a state-approved course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, and the use of an automated, external defibrillator that follows emergency cardiovascular care guidelines. Requires those same schools to consult with local emergency medical services personnel and to develop a written cardiac emergency response plan that includes specific provisions for each site at which a school-sponsored athletic event may occur, and is compliant with nationally recognized, evidence-based standards, by September 1, 2024. Requires that the emergency response plan identify each site an athletic event may occur, each employee assigned one or more responsibilities including any medical or health care services , an equipment and supplies inventory and procedures for responding to a cardiac emergency, under the plan, including the chain of command among involved employees. Requires the plan be distributed to all employees who are involved in school-sponsored athletic events. Requires the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) to consult with the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to develop rules and guidelines for the defibrillator deployment and associated policies and procedures. Permits a school district or charter school to accept gifts, grants, donations and in-kind contributions to further the deployment of this program. Appropriates a sum to be determined from the state general fund in FY 2024 - 2025 to the ADE to aid in the implementation of this program. Requires ADE to distribute monies appropriated to schools in which 50% or more of the students are eligible for free or reduced price lunches, so that those schools can purchase and maintain defibrillators, cardiopulmonary resuscitation training kits, a state approved training course for coaches in the required curriculum related to this program, and any other goods or services needed to implement this program.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2649 - Cancer screening; coverage; gene mutation
Sponsor: Rep. Judy Schwiebert (D)
Summary: Requires a hospital service corporation, health care services organization, disability insurer, group disability insurer or blanket disability insurer, or medical service corporation that issues, delivers or renews a subscription contract in the state beginning January 1, 2025, to provide coverage where increased screening, risk assessment, genetic counseling or testing is necessary per National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines, for genetic counseling or testing, single-gene “germline mutation testing” (defined) or multigene germline mutation testing based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines if the subscriber has a personal or family history of cancer or inherited gene mutation and for any “genetic test for cancer risk” (defined) if the recommendation is consistent with the most recent version of the genetic testing guidelines as published by a National Cancer Network and ordered by a “health care provider” (defined). Both a hospital service corporation or medical service corporation must ensure that the benefits required by this section are made available to a subscriber through a health care provider who is a member the provider network of the hospital service corporation or medical service corporation. Stipulates that coverage under this legislation is not subject to a deductible, coinsurance or any other cost sharing agreement. Requires a primary care provider to attempt to determine whether each adult patient the provider care for has a personal or family history of melanoma, breast, ovarian, tubal, peritoneal, endometrial, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic or prostate cancer, or an ancestry associated with a harmful mutation in the “BRCA” (defined) genes or Lynch Syndrome genes or meet any other criteria for hereditary cancer genetic testing as outlines in the guidelines prescribed by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network or a similar medical professional organization, and if so, the patient is to be provided or referred for genetic counseling, germline mutation testing, or both, as applicable, based on nationally recognized, clinical standards. Requires the provider to use a familial risk tool to screen for the risk of a mutation in BRCA genes or other genes associated with higher cancer risk, if the patient has a personal or family history of cancer and if the screening presents a higher cancer risk in the patient, the provider is to provide genetic counseling or refer the patient for such and if a genetic test for harmful mutations in the BRCA genes or other genes associated with higher cancer risk is clinically indicated as a result of genetic counseling, the provider shall administer a genetic test for cancer risk or refer the patient to an appropriate tester.  
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/29/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2659 - Prescription drugs; importation program
Sponsor: Rep. Amish Shah (D)
Summary: Requires the Arizona “Department” (defined) of Health Services (ADHS) in consultation with interested stakeholders to design a wholesale prescription drug importation program that meets the requirements of 21 USC, Section 384, pertaining to the importation of drugs into the United States. Defines the program components and requires the ADHS to develop a funding recommendation for the program and submit that recommendation to the Governor and legislature. Requires the ADHS to consult with the Arizona Attorney General’s office to develop methods to monitor compliance with all applicable laws, a formal request for the Unites States Secretary of State for certification of the state’s wholesale prescription program and to navigate any approvals, waivers, exemptions or agreements pertaining to the program. Requires the ADHS to implement the program within six months of legislative enactment or federal approval and certification and to develop rules for the implementation and management of the program. Requires the ADHS to develop an annual report for the Governor and legislature regarding program status, operation, and statistics, as defined. Entitles the bill the “Safe, Low-cost Prescription Drugs Program Act.”
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/24/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
HB2674 - Anesthesiologist assistants; licensure
Sponsor: Rep. Beverly Pingerelli (R)
Summary: Requires the Arizona Medical Board (AMB) to license anesthesiologist assistants and prohibiting a person from practicing in Arizona as an anesthesiologist assistant or use a related title without having a license from the AMB. Specifies the scope of practice for anesthesiologist assistants. Establishes qualifications for licensure as an anesthesiologist assistant, provisions for license issuance, terms, certification criteria, temporary licenses, restrictions, suspension, revocation, and reinstatement, and penalties for violations. AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
06/14/2024 
S - Referred to Committee - Rules - Senate Rules
HB2686 - Health profession regulatory boards
Sponsor: Rep. Selina Bliss (R)
Summary: Sets requirements and timelines for how complaints are handled by an Arizona Health Profession Regulatory Board (AHPRB). These requirements include the conditions for when a person who files a complaint can remain anonymous, how to handle complaints made by unidentified persons, how to handle potential criminal offenses, how to handle false or fraudulent complaints, how to inform a respondent about an investigation, conditions for evaluations or actions resulting from complaints and/or investigations, how to post policies, what information can be requested from applicants, conditions for suspending applications, and defining “without prejudice.” AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
06/12/2024 
S - PASSED - Senate Motion to Reconsider Third
HB2726 - Utilization review; prior authorization; requirements
Sponsor: Rep. Julie Willoughby (R)
Summary: Requires a new “health care insurer, pharmacy benefit manager or utilization review agent” (Insurer) to honor prior authorization from a previous Insurer within the first 90 days of the new coverage. Allows the new Insurer to conduct a prior authorization review within the first 90 days. Provides that if there is a change in coverage or approval criteria for a previously authorized medical service, the change does not affect the member who received a prior authorization approval before the effective date of the change for the remainder of the member's plan year. Requires an Insurer to continue to honor a prior authorization granted when the member changes products or plans under the same insurance company. Requires an Insurer to post on its website all prior authorizations requirements and restrictions. Requires, if an Insurer intends to implement new or changed prior authorization requirements, to post the change on its website and give members 60-day’s notice before implementing the change. Requires that prior authorization to treat a “chronic or long-term care condition” (defined) remain valid for at least one year and that any other prior authorization remain valid for at least six months, regardless of any changes in dosages of a prescription drug.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
02/13/2024 
H - Removed from Hearing Agenda - 02/15/2024, 11:30 AM - House HHS, HHR 4
SB1020 - Newborn screening; Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Requires that congenital disorders added to the core and secondary conditions list of the recommended uniform screening panel be added to the Arizona newborn screening panel within two years of its addition. Requires by December 31, 2024, that Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy be added to the Arizona newborn screening panel.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/20/2024 
H - DP   - House Appropriations
Ch. 75, Laws 2024 (SB1021 - Scope of practice; process; repeal)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Removes the definition of “Increase the scope of practice” as it is applied to “Health Professional Group” (HPG), and makes the section not applicable to regulatory entities that were legislatively enacted before August 7, 1985. Removes report criteria covered under 32-3106 and the option of a HPG proposing to increase their scope of practice to send copies of mandated written reports to the regulatory board of the health professional and the Arizona Department of Health Services for review and comment. Repeals the option of a HPG to seek the introduction of legislation if their report is not heard by an appropriate legislative committee. Repeals the exemption of an HPG seeking to increase the scope of practice to refile a report if there is no significant change. Repeals the mandate that said HPG notify the Legislature and appropriate health committee chairpersons by November 1 if the HPG intends to pursue an increase in scope of practice. Replaces “increased scope of practice” with “certification, registration or licensure” in the section outlining exemptions to reporting. Repeals Sec. 4, 32-3106. Requires the legislature to consider specific factors (listed) when considering proposed legislation to increase the scope of practice for a health professional group. Requires the health professional group in question to provide written notification to the appropriate regulatory agency of the introduction of legislation or an amendment to expand the scope of practice within 10 days of the introduction of the legislation. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
04/02/2024 
G - Signed
SB1024 - Developmental disabilities; spina bifida
Sponsor: Sen. John Kavanagh (R)
Summary: Adds Spina Bifida to the definitions of what qualifies as a developmental disability. Adds a definition of Spina Bifida. AS PASSED SENATE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
Ch. 227, Laws 2024 (SB1036 - Social work compact)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Establishes the framework for a “Social Work” (defined) Licensure Compact, including licensing and regulating the practice of social work at either the clinical, Master’s or Bachelor’s category, require a minimal level of education, have a period of supervised practice, and possess a process for adjudicating complaints. Establishes membership maintenance criteria including establishing a national testing system, contributing to data collection efforts, and setting up channels and systems to consider applicants for a multi-state license, including investigative and criminal complaint data. Enables a “home state” (define) to charge fees for creating a “multistate license” (defined). Establishes rules for social workers to participate in the multistate license, including paying applicable fees, holding an active, unencumbered license, submitting to compact, law enforcement requirements, meeting continuing competence requirements, abiding by laws of the “member state” (defined) (s,) passing a clinical category “qualifying national exam” (defined) and achieving and maintaining educational requirements. Establishes administrative processes for data collection, interstate licensing, background checks, etc. (More) AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
06/21/2024 
G - Signed
SB1037 - AHCCCS; comprehensive dental care
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Modifies dental services to mean comprehensive dental care and removes “emergency” and “and extraction.” Removes dentures as excluded prosthetic devices. Removes redundant language pertaining to exclusions from a hospital assessment fund. AS PASSED SENATE.
Position: Support
Last Action:
03/13/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
SB1043 - Genetic counselors; licensure
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Requires a license to act as a “genetic counselor” (defined.) Establishes exceptions to the genetic counselor licensing requirement including a licensed physician or medical professional working within the scope of their profession and training, while not claiming to be a genetic counselor, a person employed as a genetic counselor by the federal government if they provide counseling solely under the entity by which they are employed, a genetic counseling intern if performing under a genetic counselor, or an out of state genetic counselor licensed by their state of residence who provides services in Arizona less than 30 days each year. Commencing on October 1, 2025 a person wishing to provide genetic counseling to be in compliance with all state licensing requirements, including filing an application, paying appropriate fees and providing proof of certification, and a person practicing as a genetic counselor on the effective date of this legislation must do the same by January 1, 2026.  Upon compliance with those requirements, the Department of Health Services (DHS) shall grant a genetic counselor license to that individual, including individuals who present documentation of licensure in another state as part of a reciprocal agreement or provisional license. The DHS may adopt rules as needed and shall define the standards of practice for a genetic counselor and create a five-member genetic counselors advisory committee to evaluate, adopt and modify rules, or make recommendations for statutory changes. (More) AS PASSED SENATE.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/18/2024 
H - DP   - House Health & Human Services
Ch. 104, Laws 2024 (SB1048 - Child fatality review teams; duties)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Makes changes to the membership of the State Child Fatality Review Team. Removes the Office of Planning and Health Status Monitoring in the Arizona Department of Health Services, Parent Assistance Office of the Supreme Court as members of the team and replaces the required public member of the state child fatality review team with a local child fatality review team member if one is available. Removes the staggered three-year term limit on members of the team. Directs the team to, beginning January 1, 2025, to develop an annual statistical report on the incidence and causes of child fatalities and near fatalities with recommendations for improvement identified by the Department of Child Safety for each covered year and submit that report to the Governor and legislature by November 15 of each year and that it include plans or progress toward the implementation of recommendations. Requires a detailed written response to all recommendations made to a state agency, board or commission, including an implementation plan be submitted to the Governor and legislature within sixty days of receipt of the annual statistical report on incidence and causation of child fatalities in Arizona. Removes a psychiatrist or psychologist licensed in Arizona as a required member of Local Child Fatality Review Teams and replaces them with a Mental Health Specialist. Permits interviewing of family members of the deceased child or woman by members of the local Child Fatality Review Team, or a member’s designee and directs the state team to develop a process for approving, contacting and interviewing said person. Requires any person conducting the interview be trained in trauma informed interview techniques and educated on the support services available to the family member. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/08/2024 
G - Signed
SB1061 - Committees of reference; deadline; extension
Sponsor: Sen. J.D. Mesnard (R)
Summary: Changes the deadline to hold a public hearing when the legislature is not in session to the last day in January after the receipt of a preliminary sunset review report. Changes the deadline for delivering a final report to the Governor and legislature, Auditor General, and the affected agency to the last day in January. AS VETOED BY GOVERNOR. In her veto message, the Governor stated that legislators currently have the ability to hold Committee of Reference hearings in the interim, prior to the deadlines at the start of the legislative session.
Position: Support
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
G - Vetoed
SB1069 - State health insurance exchange; board
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Establishes the Health Insurance Exchange to facilitate the purchase and sale of health plans in the individual market, reduce the number of uninsured, provide a transparent marketplace for health insurance and consumer education, and aid with giving residents access to programs, premium assistance, resources, tax credits and sharing reductions. Requires the exchange to administer health insurance coverage, facilitate purchases of qualified plans, aid employers in enrolling employees in plans offered on the small group market, enter into contracts with the state, political subdivisions and individuals to facilitate and carry out the mission of the exchange, collaborate with appropriate state agencies to coordinate transitions between health insurance plans and apply for or accept any gift, grant, donation, bequest or other money source that will facilitate the exchange carrying out its assigned duties. Requires the exchange to follow established procurement rules and laws. Defines membership for the Health Insurance Exchange Board as well as the terms for each member, criteria for representation, electing a chair and required meeting schedules. Empowers the Board to set up subcommittees and advisory committees as needed and prohibits members from reimbursement of expenses. Requires the Board to adopt rules and before January 1 and June 1 of each year submit a summary fiscal and operational report to the governor and legislature for review. Requires the Board to appoint an Executive Director. Stipulates that the Health Insurance Exchange Board terminates on July 1, 2024. (More)
Position: Support
Last Action:
01/17/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1085 - Pharmacists; independent testing; treatment
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Permits a pharmacist to independently test for and treat eligible persons for outlined medical conditions authorized by the FDA and waived under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) including influenza, group A streptococcus pharyngitis, SARS-CoV-2 or any other respiratory illness, condition or disease, or a condition related to an emerging or existing public health threat identified by the Department of Health Services for which a statewide standing order, rule or executive order is issued. Requires a pharmacist who orders, conducts testing or treats a health condition to use any test that may guide clinical decision-making for which a waiver has been obtained under federal law or any screening procedure that is established by the statewide protocol. Requires pharmacists to use evidence-based clinical guidelines published by the CDC or other clinically recognized recommendations. Requires an eligible person to meet criteria for treatment based on current clinical guidelines, if available, or evidence-based research findings specified. Requires pharmacist to notify the patient's identified primary care provider, if one is identified, within 72 hours after initiating treatment with information specified.  Allows a pharmacist to delegate the administrative and technical tasks of performing a test to a trained member of the pharmacy staff who is under the supervision of the pharmacist, but limited to tasks that do not require clinical judgment, and only ancillary duties as approved by the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. Prohibits a health insurer from denying reimbursement for any test, screening or treatment performed by a pharmacist, that is within the scope of the pharmacist's license, and would be covered if otherwise performed by a medical or osteopathic physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. (more)
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/06/2024 
S - FAILED   - Senate Third Reading
SB1099 - Supplemental breast exams; insurance; coverage
Sponsor: Sen. Catherine Miranda (D)
Summary: Requires a contract, health care plan, disability policy, group disability policy, blanket disability insurance policy, that covers mastectomy services cover a “supplemental breast examination” (defined). Requires contractors to provide, subject to approval by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, well-woman preventative care services that include a referral for a separate breast examination using a high resolution pressure elastography device, if the examination includes point-of-care ultrasound or any identified potential abnormalities based on an increased risk of breast cancer, the provider’s recommendation over a traditional clinical breast examination or a woman’s personal preference. Entitles the bill the “Ysabel Act.”
Position: Support
Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1101 - Appropriations; secure behavioral health facilities
Sponsor: Sen. Catherine Miranda (D)
Summary: Appropriates $25,000,000 from the state general fund in FY 2024 - 2025 to the Arizona Department of Administration for the support and construction of secure behavioral health residential facilities, including up to $5,000,000 per facility as prioritized by state law, and $10,000,000 from the state general fund and $18,768,700 from the Medicaid Expenditure Authority in FY 2024 – 2025 to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System for an ongoing secure behavioral health provider rate increase. These appropriations are exempt from lapsing of appropriations provisions.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
S - DPA   - Senate Health and Human Services
SB1160 - Technical correction; health professionals
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Removes the discretionary power the Arizona Board of Dental Examiners has in issuing a renewal license for one year or less.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/23/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1164 - Pharmacy benefits; coverage (Pharmacy benefits; coverage; exemptions)
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Prohibits a Pharmacy Benefits Manager from limiting or excluding coverage of a prescription drug for any insured individual who is medically stable on a specific drug previously approved by the insurer. Prohibits limitation, reduction or change of coverage unless the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) revokes approval for the drug or the drug manufacturer notifies the USFDA of a manufacturing discontinuation or potential discontinuation. Requires written notice of a formulary change to each impacted covered individual and the prescribing provider at least 60 days before the change. Prohibits a change from the previously covered drug without written authorization from the prescribing provider. Requires development of a prescription coverage exemption determination process and defines timelines. Requires notification of reasons for a denial of coverage and permits appeal. Provides a summary of the appeal process. Effective January 1, 2025. AS PASSED SENATE.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/25/2024 
H - DPA   - House Appropriations
SB1177 - Court-ordered treatment; evaluations; physicians
Sponsor: Sen. David Gowan (R)
Summary: Removes the criteria for mental health personnel completing the mental health evaluation of a person for whom the court has ordered undergo treatment and stipulates that the evaluation only must include two physicians and that the evaluation must consider both individual’s assessment of the person in question.
Position: Oppose
Last Action:
06/14/2024 
S - Referred to Committee - Rules - Senate Rules
SB1238 - Obstetric services; rural communities; recommendations
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) is required to convene stakeholders and staff to develop recommendations to ensure that obstetrics and gynecology services are provided in low-volume, high-risk rural communities in Arizona. By December 31, 2025, ADHS is required to report the recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature. This self-repeals June 30, 2026.
Position: Support
Last Action:
06/14/2024 
H - RET ON CAL - House Committee of the Whole
SB1249 - Psychologists; prescribing authority
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Adds to the duties of the Arizona State Board of Psychologist Examiners to investigate charges involving prescribing by a prescribing psychologist and recommending to the Board whether the Arizona Medical Board believes the prescribing psychologists engaged in unprofessional conduct or provided incompetent medical care based on the “collaborative prescription agreement” (defined). Permits a physician to enter into a collaborative prescription agreement with a private psychologist and to supervise the clinical training of psychologists who apply for prescribing authority. Limits the number of collaboration agreements a “collaborating physician” (defined) can create or join to four. Requires the prescribing psychologist in a collaborative prescription agreement that prescribes for children and provides adolescent care for persons who are at least 12 but under 18, to have training in pediatrics and for a “prescribing psychologist” (defined) who treats persons at least 65 years of age to have training in geriatrics. Requires the Board to investigate any charges involving prescribing by a prescribing psychologist and to make recommendations to the Board whether the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery believe the prescribing psychologist engaged in unprofessional conduct or provided incompetent medical care based on the prescribing psychologist’s collaborative prescription agreement. Requires the Board to refer any charges to the Arizona Medical Board, or the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery depending on the circumstances of the infraction and the status of the physicians involved. Requires the Board to receive and consider recommendations from both groups before taking action regarding matters related to prescribing by a prescribing psychologist. Permits a psychologist to apply to the Board for a prescription license on a form provided by the Board that includes evidence the applicant has completed a doctoral program in psychology from an accredited institution of higher education or professional school, or if the program was not accredited at the time of the applicant's graduation, the program meets all professional standards determined acceptable by the Board, holds a current license to practice psychology in the state, has successfully completed pharmacological training from an institution of higher education approved by the Board, passed a national certification examination approved by the Board in diagnosing caring and treating mental disorders, successfully completed an organized program of education that is approved by the state Board in specific areas of study, successfully completed specific minimum undergraduate study in specific areas defined by the Board, and has been certified by each of the applicant’s supervising physician as having successfully completed a supervised and relevant clinical experience that includes a practicum of at least 14 hours of supervised clinical training of at least 50% full time status and at least 20 hours per week in clinical assessment and pathophysiology under the supervision of a physician, and at least one thousand hours that is supervised in person by one or a combination of psychiatrists or other appropriately trained physicians and that is determined by the Board to be sufficient to completely train the applicant in treating a diverse population, and has malpractice insurance in place sufficient to satisfy the rules adopted by the Board and cover the applicant up to $1 million per incident and $3,000,000 per year or as otherwise approved by the Board. Requires a prescribing psychologist to have a collaborative prescription agreement in place in order to prescribe medication and defines the duties they may perform in that capacity, including defining limitations and prohibitions. Requires the Board to adapt rules that developed procedures for obtaining a prescription license and subsequent renewals, establishing license and fees, establishing grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of licenses and prohibits the Board from adopting any other rules necessary for the purposes of this legislation. Defines the information that must be included in a collaborative prescription agreement. Defines the various relationships a prescribing psychologist shall maintain in regards to a patient's health care as it relates to the medications they are prescribing for the patient. Lists the various duties the Board is required to complete, including providing a list of prescribing psychologists to various state agencies and Boards. Exempts the Board, Arizona Medical Board and the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery from rule making requirements prescribed by law, except for those duties described in this legislation.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
S - Hearing Scheduled - 01/30/2024 - Second Reading, Senate Floor
Ch. 54, Laws 2024 (SB1250 - AHCCCS; claims)
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Adds a deadline of 60 days for a health care insurer to respond to an inquiry regarding a claim for payment for any health care item or service. Previously there was no deadline. Prohibits denial of payment of a claim submitted by the state based solely on lack of prior authorization if the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System Administration (AHCCS) authorized the item or service. Removes the requirement that a copy of the yearly report on health care insurer compliance be submitted to the director of the Arizona state library, archives and public records. AS SIGNED BY GOVERNOR.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
03/29/2024 
G - Signed
SB1251 - 340B drugs; covered entities; distribution
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Prohibits a manufacturer, “repackager” (defined), third-party logistics provider or “wholesale distributor” (defined), or an agent or affiliate of them to deny, restrict, prohibit, discriminate against or otherwise limit the acquisition of a “340B drug” (defined) to a “340B covered entity” (defined), including someone delivering the drugs, pharmacy or a location authorized by the 340B covered entity if the transaction is legal per federal law. Prohibits a 340B covered entity to submit a claim or utilization data as a condition for allowing the legal acquisition of a 340B drug unless either action is a federal legal requirement. Requires the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy (ASBP) to investigate any complaint of an infraction of the above provisions by a person or entity permitted or licensed by the Board and permits the board to impose discipline, suspension or revocation on the permitted or licensed entity. Stipulates that a violation of this legislation is subject to enforcement by the Arizona Attorney General pursuant to state law. Clarifies that each package of drugs that is involved in a violation of this legislation is a separate violation, this legislation may not be construed or applied to be less restrictive than federal law, that limited distribution of a drug required under federal law applying to introduction of drugs and interstate commerce is not a violation of this legislation, and that the legislation does not create a private cause of action against person or entity violating the legislation. Permits the ASBP to adopt rules for implementation.  
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/30/2024 
S - Hearing Scheduled - 01/30/2024 - Second Reading, Senate Floor
SB1253 - Step therapy; exclusion; medical equipment
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Excludes from this article relating to step therapy a health care provider's order for “durable medical equipment” (defined) that requires frequent and substantial service.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/31/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1263 - Anesthesiologist assistants; licensure.
Sponsor: Sen. Sonny Borrelli (R)
Summary: Requires the Arizona Medical Board (AMB) to license anesthesiologist assistants and prohibiting a person from practicing in Arizona as an anesthesiologist assistant or use a related title without having a license from the AMB. Specifies the scope of practice for anesthesiologist assistants. Establishes qualifications for licensure as an anesthesiologist assistant, provisions for license issuance, restrictions, suspension, revocation, and reinstatement, and penalties for violations.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
01/31/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1269 - Dental hygienists; botox; continuing education
Sponsor: Sen. Thomas "T.J." Shope (R)
Summary: Requires the Arizona Board of Dental Examiners (ABDE) to establish continuing education requirements for dentists and dental hygienists who provide Botox or dermal fillers to patients. Allows dental hygienists to administer Botox and dermal fillers after meeting the criteria and conditions listed. Requires the use of high quality products from reputable vendors. AS PASSED SENATE.
Position: Neutral
Last Action:
02/22/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
SB1295 - Advanced practice registered nurses; compact
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Establishes the Interstate Commission of “Advanced Practice Registered Nurses” (defined) (APRN) Compact (Compact), a joint public agency for greater coordination and cooperation among states in the areas of APRN licensure and regulation. Lists the general purposes of the Compact, requirements for member states regarding multi-state licensing, and authorities of a party state licensing board. Defines member state requirements, licensing reciprocity, adjudication of complaints and licensing issues and reporting requirements. Establishes and defines Interstate Commission of APRN Compact Administrators (Commission), and specifies rules for membership, voting, meetings, bylaws, and financial records, powers of the Commission, licensing procedures, adjudication of complaints and licensing issues, immunity and indemnification, rulemaking powers dispute resolution and requirements for the Compact to become effective. Establishes the Interstate Practice of Regulated Social Workers compact and the criteria to join, including legislative thresholds. Establishes an associated Executive Committee and regulatory body, meeting requirements for that body, authorities, responsibilities, duties, member participation expectations, roles and scope of work, payment, participation terms, prohibitions, rules making authorities and emergency action permissions. Defines criteria for states to enter, licensing, immunity and reciprocity, participation, licensing and education requirements for member social workers, prohibitions and restrictions on participation, investigations and legal requirements and permissions, mutual disciplinary procedures and permissions. Establishes records keeping and documentation requirements, sharing of data procedures, fees, indemnity and immunity extensions, and member rights related to the Compact and Commission. Defines termination requirements for each member-state, severability, home-state legal rights and procedures for exiting the pact. (More.) AS PASSED HOUSE.
Position: Oppose
Last Action:
06/04/2024 
H - DPA - House Committee of the Whole
SB1406 - International medical licensees; provisional licensure
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Allows the Arizona Medical Board (AMB) to grant a provisional medical license to an “international medical licensee” (defined) who has an offer for employment as a physician at any health care provider that operates in a county with a population of less than one million persons, whose federal immigration status allows the person to work as a physician in the US, who meets the statutory requirements for medicine and surgery licensure and, if applicable, the additional requirements for students graduating from an unapproved allopathic school of medicine. Allows AMB to require an international medical licensee to provide evidence of substantially similar medical training; evidence of satisfactory passage of exams; a complete license application; and payment of all required licensing fees. Outlines AMB powers regarding applications. Outlines requirements of a licensee, including working under the supervision of a licensed physician. Requires the licensee to speak the English language at a level sufficient to communicate with patients about medical conditions and treatments. Requires the international medical licensee's employer to notify AMB if the licensee is terminated or leaves employment for any reason. Outlines AMB powers regarding termination and discipline. Requires a provisional license to automatically be converted into a full medical license after four years if the licensee engages in the practice of medicine in Arizona for four years in an area that is designated as medically underserved and is not disciplined by the board during the four-year period of the provisional license. Exempts the Arizona Medical Board and the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners in Medicine and Surgery from rulemaking requirements. Effective January 1, 2025. AS PASSED BY SENATE.
Position: Oppose
Last Action:
06/14/2024 
H - FAILED   - House Third Reading
SB1438 - Health insurance coverage; insulin
Sponsor: Sen. Rosanna Gabaldón (D)
Summary: Limits the amount a health care services corporation, disability insurer, group disability insurer, blanket disability insurer, accountable health plan, medical service corporation, a hospital service corporation or a hospital, medical, dental and optometric service corporation can charge for a covered “prescription insulin drug” (defined) to not more than $35 per 30-day supply of insulin, regardless of the amount or type of insulin needed to fulfill a subscriber’s prescription.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
02/01/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1509 - Informed consent; signatures
Sponsor: Sen. Janae Shamp (R)
Summary: Provides for an exception in the case of an emergency, but otherwise requires, for purposes of informed consent and the performance of a “surgical procedure” (defined), the date and the signatures of the physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant who is providing the health care service, the patient or their surrogate decision maker per state law, and a witness. Requires verification by a witness of authorization of informed consent if a patient or their surrogate is unable to consent that the patient intended to consent to the procedure. AS VETOED BY GOVERNOR. In her veto message, the Governor stated that this bill is unnecessary as it is already standard practice to receive informed consent from patients prior to receiving care.
Position: Neutral
Last Action:
04/16/2024 
G - Vetoed
SB1532 - Prescription drugs; price limits
Sponsor: Sen. Eva Burch (D)
Summary: Any person that purchases a referenced drug in the state may not pay a price for the drug that, excluding any applicable and legal fees, exceeds the “maximum fair price” (defined) during the price applicability period. Reimbursement for that same drug, excluding any applicable and legal fees, must not exceed the maximum fair price. Violations of either provision is an unlawful practice and enforceable by the Attorney General. Each violation constitutes a separate unlawful practice and is subject to investigation and appropriate action by the Attorney General. A person that is a victim of a violation under this law is permitted to bring a private action for consumer fraud.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
02/06/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1533 - Prescription drugs; costs; affordability division
Sponsor: Sen. Eva Burch (D)
Summary: Establishes the Arizona Department of Health Services Prescription Drug Affordability Division (ADHS) to regulate consumer cost saving mechanisms for prescription drugs. Requires a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) to file a price increase request with ADHS before increasing the price of a drug above the rate of inflation. Requires ADHS to respond within 90 days. Allows for appeal within 15 days of denial. Requires a PBM to provide quarterly reports to ADHS on rebates, frequently prescribed drugs, most expensive prescribed drugs and other information required by ADHS. Prohibits a PBM from charging a carrier or consumer more for a drug than the amount paid to the pharmacy. Requires state-regulated health plans and pharmacy benefit managers to limit reimbursements to the upper payment limit established by ADHS. Prohibits providers from charging more than the upper payment limit to a patient or third-party payer eve if the health plan chooses to reimburse provider above the upper payment limit established by ADHS. Requires a PBM to submit records to ADHS for audit.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
02/06/2024 
S - Senate 2nd Read
SB1535 - School personnel; emergency glucagon administration.
Sponsor: Sen. Eva Burch (D)
Summary: Allows a school to administer Glucagon if a school district or charter school has obtained Glucagon pursuant to a standing order as defined by law, or, the voluntary diabetes care assistant has provided a signed statement by a health professional who is licensed per state law attesting that the assistant has received proper training to administer Glucagon. Permits a school district or charter school governing board to annually request a standing order for Glucagon and defines who may approve the request, per state law. Permits a school district or charter school to stock one or more doses of Glucagon at school sites for emergency administration and defines who may administer the doses. Permits a school district or charter school to accept monetary donations or apply for grants to purchase Glucagon, or to participate in third party programs to obtain Glucagon at no cost, at a fair market price, or at a reduced price. Permits a school district or charter school to develop policies and procedures for the emergency administration of Glucagon, including administering Glucagon to a pupil whom the nurse, physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or school employee believes in good faith is exhibiting symptoms of hypoglycemia while at school or at a school sponsored activity, regardless of whether the pupil has been diagnosed with diabetes or has a diabetes medical management plan on file with the school. Defines criteria necessary for an employee to be considered trained in administering Glucagon. Provides limited immunity from civil liability for the consequences of the good faith adoption and implementation of policies and procedures pertaining to this legislation and lists the individuals who enjoy that privilege. Adds Glucagon that is written or dispensed for a school district or charter school and stocked for emergency use to the list of exclusions for dispensing drugs as part of the definition of unprofessional conduct.
Position: No position selected.
Last Action:
02/29/2024 
H - House 2nd Read
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