Genetic counselors.

Existing law, the Hereditary Disorders Act, requires the State Department of Public Health to establish hereditary disorder programs, 100 specified, and to license master level genetic counselors and doctoral level geneticists. One of the requirements for licensure is that an individual demonstrate competence by an examination administered or approved by the department. Existing law prohibits an unlicensed person from using the title of genetic counselor. This bill, beginning July 1, 2011, and until regulations are finalized by the department, would require the department to license genetic counselors who meet specified requirements and would allow the department to revoke licenses issued pursuant to these requirements upon the person losing certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling or upon conviction of certain felonies, as defined. This bill would repeal these provisions as of January 1, 2014. This bill would also require, on and after July 1, 2011, the department to issue a temporary genetic counselor license, valid for 24 months, to a person who meets all of the requirements for licensure except passing the above-described examination and who meets the requirements to apply for the examination and has applied, or plans to apply, for the examination, as specified, and who pays a fee of $200. The bill would require a person working under a temporary genetic counselor license to work under the general supervision of a licensed genetic counselor or a licensed physician and surgeon. The bill would allow the department to revoke a temporary genetic counselor license upon the conviction of certain felonies, as defined.