Healthcare (Medical Licensing)

HB 697 establishes North Carolina's first licensure requirements for genetic counselors. The bill creates a 5-member Genetic Counselors Licensure Board (with 3 licensed counselors, 1 physician, and 1 public member) to regulate the profession. Key provisions include defining "genetic counseling," setting standards for licensure (requiring ABGC certification or equivalent), establishing temporary licenses for interns, and granting the Board authority to issue, deny, suspend, or revoke licenses. This directly affects genetic counselors practicing in North Carolina, requiring them to obtain a license to legally provide services. The bill does not change healthcare access or funding but sets professional standards for this specific healthcare role.

HB 693 establishes the "Interstate Massage Compact" to create a multistate licensing pathway for massage therapists across participating states. It directly affects licensed massage therapists seeking to practice in multiple states and the public receiving those services. Key mechanisms include creating an Interstate Commission to administer the compact, enabling therapists to hold a single "multistate license" valid in all member states, requiring background checks and continuing competence, and allowing states to share disciplinary information and hold licensees accountable. The compact aims to improve public access to safe massage therapy while reducing regulatory burdens for therapists, particularly aiding military members and their spouses relocating between states.