Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee - Senate
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Bills discussed (75)
| Bill | Title | Sponsor | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
|
HB1429
Act 854
· 8 mentions in agenda, transcript, chapter
Matched: “…R INPATIENT TREATMENT SERVICES FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS. HB1429 M. Shepherd TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY WHILE ENSURING QUALIT…”
|
TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY WHILE ENSURING QUALITY FOR CERTAIN FACILITIES PERFORMING MAMMOGRAPHY SERVICES; AND TO AMEND … | M. Shepherd | Notification that HB1429 is now Act 854 |
|
HB1004
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…EMS (ARRIVES) FUND FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES AGENCIES. HB1004 Pilkington TO REQUIRE MEDICAID COVERAGE FOR POSTPARTUM MOTH…”
|
TO REQUIRE MEDICAID COVERAGE FOR POSTPARTUM MOTHERS FOR ONE YEAR AFTER GIVING BIRTH. | Pilkington | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1131
Act 959
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…EQUIRE PAIN RELIEF PARITY IN THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM. HB1131 Pilkington TO AUTHORIZE AN ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NUR…”
|
TO AUTHORIZE AN ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE TO DELEGATE CERTAIN TASKS TO MEDICAL ASSISTANTS AND … | Pilkington | Notification that HB1131 is now Act 959 |
|
HB1171
Act 625
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1171 K. Moore TO MODIFY THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE…”
|
TO MODIFY THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE ACT; AND TO AUTHORIZE AN ABBREVIATED INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT … | K. Moore | Notification that HB1171 is now Act 625 |
|
HB1185
Act 799
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1185 L. Johnson TO ADOPT THE DIETITIAN LICENSURE COMPACT IN ARKA…”
|
TO ADOPT THE DIETITIAN LICENSURE COMPACT IN ARKANSAS. | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1185 is now Act 799 |
|
HB1186
Act 960
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1186 Vaught TO CREATE THE PAIN RELIEF PARITY ACT; AND TO REQUIRE…”
|
TO CREATE THE PAIN RELIEF PARITY ACT; AND TO REQUIRE PAIN RELIEF PARITY IN THE … | Vaught | Notification that HB1186 is now Act 960 |
|
HB1187
Act 858
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1187 Vaught TO AUTHORIZE A LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT FOR MARRIAGE…”
|
TO AUTHORIZE A LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT FOR MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS. | Vaught | Notification that HB1187 is now Act 858 |
|
HB1218
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1218 J. Mayberry TO CREATE LICENSURE FOR THERAPEUTIC RECREATION…”
|
TO CREATE LICENSURE FOR THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SPECIALISTS; AND TO CREATE THE THERAPEUTIC RECREATION PRACTICE ACT. | J. Mayberry | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1241
Act 568
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1241 J. Mayberry TO ENSURE THAT THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM RE…”
|
TO ENSURE THAT THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM REIMBURSES FOR DENTAL AND ANESTHESIA COSTS FOR HIGH … | J. Mayberry | Notification that HB1241 is now Act 568 |
|
HB1251
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…SION TO BE AN ADVISORY COUNCIL TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH. HB1251 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH THE ARKANSAS ANESTHESIOLOGIST ASSIS…”
|
TO ESTABLISH THE ARKANSAS ANESTHESIOLOGIST ASSISTANT ACT; AND TO PROVIDE FOR LICENSURE OF ANESTHESIOLOGIST ASSISTANTS. | L. Johnson | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1252
Act 965
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1252 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH THE CERTIFIED COMMUNITY-BASED DOULA…”
|
TO ESTABLISH THE CERTIFIED COMMUNITY-BASED DOULA CERTIFICATION ACT; AND TO CERTIFY BIRTH AND POSTPARTUM DOULAS … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1252 is now Act 965 |
|
HB1285
Act 856
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1285 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH AN EXEMPTION PROGRAM FOR AMBULANCE…”
|
TO ESTABLISH AN EXEMPTION PROGRAM FOR AMBULANCE SERVICE'S OPERATORS FOR CERTAIN HEALTHCARE SERVICES. | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1285 is now Act 856 |
|
HB1403
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1403 Pilkington TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY FOR…”
|
TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY FOR ME ACT OF 2021 TO ALLOW NONHOSPITAL … | Pilkington | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1428
Act 855
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1428 Steimel TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING PUBLIC LODGING; AND TO P…”
|
TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING PUBLIC LODGING; AND TO PROVIDE A BED HEIGHT REQUIREMENT FOR … | Steimel | Notification that HB1428 is now Act 855 |
|
HB1439
Act 853
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1439 Ladyman TO REMOVE THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS OF THE DEPARTME…”
|
TO REMOVE THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES FROM LICENSURE AS A … | Ladyman | Notification that HB1439 is now Act 853 |
|
HB1440
Act 629
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1440 Bentley TO AMEND THE MASSAGE THERAPY ACT; AND TO ESTABLISH…”
|
TO AMEND THE MASSAGE THERAPY ACT; AND TO ESTABLISH REGISTRATION FOR MASSAGE THERAPY ESTABLISHMENTS. | Bentley | Notification that HB1440 is now Act 629 |
|
HB1442
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1442 Achor TO SET RESTRICTIONS ON PHARMACY CONTRACTING AND CONFL…”
|
TO SET RESTRICTIONS ON PHARMACY CONTRACTING AND CONFLICTS OF INTEREST; AND TO ESTABLISH PHARMACEUTICAL PATIENT … | Achor | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1454
Act 674
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1454 Bentley TO AMEND THE LAWS CONCERNING CRIMINAL HISTORY RECOR…”
|
TO AMEND THE LAWS CONCERNING CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORDS CHECKS FOR EMPLOYEES OF SERVICE PROVIDERS; TO … | Bentley | Notification that HB1454 is now Act 674 |
|
HB1458
Act 851
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…ND TO PROVIDE FOR LICENSURE OF ANESTHESIOLOGIST ASSISTANTS. HB1458 L. Johnson TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "CREDENTIALING INFORM…”
|
TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "CREDENTIALING INFORMATION" WHEN THE ARKANSAS STATE MEDICAL BOARD IS PROVIDING … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1458 is now Act 851 |
|
HB1471
Act 966
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1471 Wooldridge TO AMEND THE EXPIRATION DATE OF ALL LICENSES OF…”
|
TO AMEND THE EXPIRATION DATE OF ALL LICENSES OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE … | Wooldridge | Notification that HB1471 is now Act 966 |
|
HB1537
Act 850
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…RD IS PROVIDING INFORMATION TO CREDENTIALING ORGANIZATIONS. HB1537 Ladyman TO REPEAL THE LOCATION ACT FOR COMMUNITY HOMES FOR…”
|
TO REPEAL THE LOCATION ACT FOR COMMUNITY HOMES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES. | Ladyman | Notification that HB1537 is now Act 850 |
|
HB1543
Act 631
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1543 Underwood TO ESTABLISH THE WORKFORCE EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITI…”
|
TO ESTABLISH THE WORKFORCE EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES ACT OF 2025. | Underwood | Notification that HB1543 is now Act 631 |
|
HB1559
Act 632
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1559 McGrew TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO SEEK…”
|
TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO SEEK A WAIVER TO THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID … | McGrew | Notification that HB1559 is now Act 632 |
|
HB1576
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…ULANCE SERVICE'S OPERATORS FOR CERTAIN HEALTHCARE SERVICES. HB1576 Lundstrum TO PROHIBIT A SOLID WASTE LANDFILL TO BE PLACED O…”
|
TO PROHIBIT A SOLID WASTE LANDFILL TO BE PLACED OVER A KARST TOPOGRAPHY. | Lundstrum | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1582
Act 708
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1582 McAlindon TO REQUIRE CERTAIN ACTIONS AND ENCOURAGE CERTAIN…”
|
TO REQUIRE CERTAIN ACTIONS AND ENCOURAGE CERTAIN ACTIONS FOR AN INDIVIDUAL TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR … | McAlindon | Notification that HB1582 is now Act 708 |
|
HB1585
Act 849
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1585 L. Johnson TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FROM LICENSURE AS A HOME…”
|
TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FROM LICENSURE AS A HOME HEALTHCARE SERVICE TO AN ENTITY THAT … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1585 is now Act 849 |
|
HB1622
Act 635
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…FOR BENEFITS UNDER THE DIVISION OF WORKFORCE SERVICES LAW. HB1622 Gramlich TO AMEND THE MEDICAID FAIRNESS ACT; TO MODIFY THE…”
|
TO AMEND THE MEDICAID FAIRNESS ACT; TO MODIFY THE DEFINITION OF "ADVERSE DECISION" UNDER THE … | Gramlich | Notification that HB1622 is now Act 635 |
|
HB1677
Act 637
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1677 Bentley TO AUTHORIZE ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT PROGR…”
|
TO AUTHORIZE ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT PROGRAMS TO MAINTAIN EMERGENCY MEDICATION KITS. | Bentley | Notification that HB1677 is now Act 637 |
|
HB1679
Act 861
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1679 M. Brown TO AMEND THE REVISED ARKANSAS ANATOMICAL GIFT ACT;…”
|
TO AMEND THE REVISED ARKANSAS ANATOMICAL GIFT ACT; TO ALLOW CERTAIN CLASSES OF PERSONS TO … | M. Brown | Notification that HB1679 is now Act 861 |
|
HB1712
Act 639
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1712 Joey Carr TO ESTABLISH THE SOCIAL WORK LICENSURE COMPACT IN…”
|
TO ESTABLISH THE SOCIAL WORK LICENSURE COMPACT IN THIS STATE. | Joey Carr | Notification that HB1712 is now Act 639 |
|
HB1734
Act 862
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…ORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS DISEASE; AND TO PROVIDE CIVIL IMMUNITY. HB1734 Childress TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING DEATH CERTIFICATES; A…”
|
TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING DEATH CERTIFICATES; AND TO CLARIFY THE MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS WHO MAY … | Childress | Notification that HB1734 is now Act 862 |
|
HB1751
Act 640
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1751 Underwood TO REQUIRE AN APPLICANT FOR TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE…”
|
TO REQUIRE AN APPLICANT FOR TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES PROGRAM BENEFITS TO ENGAGE IN … | Underwood | Notification that HB1751 is now Act 640 |
|
HB1758
Act 641
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…ICAL CERTIFICATE OF DEATH AND PRONOUNCE DEATH OF A PATIENT. HB1758 Gramlich TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING HEARING INSTRUMENT DIS…”
|
TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING HEARING INSTRUMENT DISPENSERS; AND TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "PRACTICE … | Gramlich | Notification that HB1758 is now Act 641 |
|
HB1767
Act 863
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1767 L. Johnson TO ABOLISH THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISO…”
|
TO ABOLISH THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL; AND TO CREATE THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1767 is now Act 863 |
|
HB1782
Act 642
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…TO REQUIRE CERTAIN REPORTING OF PROCUREMENT ORGANIZATIONS. HB1782 Hudson TO PROHIBIT OVER-THE-COUNTER DIET PILLS FROM BEING S…”
|
TO PROHIBIT OVER-THE-COUNTER DIET PILLS FROM BEING SOLD, TRANSFERRED, OR OTHERWISE FURNISHED TO A PERSON … | Hudson | Notification that HB1782 is now Act 642 |
|
HB1784
Act 864
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1784 Wardlaw TO MODIFY THE INFORMAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESS F…”
|
TO MODIFY THE INFORMAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESS FOR LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES. | Wardlaw | Notification that HB1784 is now Act 864 |
|
HB1801
Act 961
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1801 K. Moore TO AUTHORIZE AN OUTSOURCING FACILITY OF LEGEND DRU…”
|
TO AUTHORIZE AN OUTSOURCING FACILITY OF LEGEND DRUGS AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES THAT COMPOUNDS A PRODUCT … | K. Moore | Notification that HB1801 is now Act 961 |
|
HB1817
Act 865
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “HB1817 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH ELIJAH'S LAW IN ARKANSAS; AND TO RE…”
|
TO ESTABLISH ELIJAH'S LAW IN ARKANSAS; AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND THE … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1817 is now Act 865 |
|
HB1840
Act 967
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…SH A STATEWIDE ANAPHYLAXIS POLICY FOR CHILDCARE FACILITIES. HB1840 L. Johnson TO AMEND THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CAR…”
|
TO AMEND THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE ACT TO ENSURE THAT SEDATION DENTISTRY IS COVERED … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1840 is now Act 967 |
|
HB1841
Act 1021
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…DENTISTRY IS COVERED BY RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATIONS. HB1841 L. Johnson TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS REVENUE INVESTMENT IN VIT…”
|
TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS REVENUE INVESTMENT IN VITAL EMS SYSTEMS (ARRIVES) ACT; AND TO CREATE … | L. Johnson | Notification that HB1841 is now Act 1021 |
|
SB121
Act 968
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB121 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR…”
|
TO AMEND THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LICENSURE ACT; TO APPLY THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL … | C. Penzo | Notification that SB121 is now Act 968 |
|
SB122
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB122 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR…”
|
TO AMEND THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LICENSURE ACT; TO APPLY THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL … | C. Penzo | Died on House Calendar at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB2
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…RTAIN GENETIC SEQUENCERS AND GENETIC ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGIES. SB2 C. Penzo TO REPEAL THE STATEWIDE FLUORIDATION PROGRAM; AND…”
|
TO REPEAL THE STATEWIDE FLUORIDATION PROGRAM; AND TO REMOVE THE MANDATE FOR WATER SYSTEMS TO … | C. Penzo | Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB217
Act 969
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB217 C. Penzo TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO REQ…”
|
TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO REQUEST A WAIVER TO EXCLUDE CANDY AND … | C. Penzo | Notification that SB217 is now Act 969 |
|
SB225
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB225 J. Scott TO REQUIRE THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM TO PROVID…”
|
TO REQUIRE THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM TO PROVIDE A CATEGORY FOR BENEFICIARIES WITH SICKLE CELL … | J. Scott | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB255
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB255 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "DRUG" WITHIN THE FOOD,…”
|
TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "DRUG" WITHIN THE FOOD, DRUG, AND COSMETIC ACT; AND TO … | C. Penzo | Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB262
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…ING LOCATIONS FOR AND GEOGRAPHIC AREAS OF A HOSPICE AGENCY. SB262 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE CORPORATE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE DOCTRI…”
|
TO AMEND THE CORPORATE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE DOCTRINE; AND TO AUTHORIZE A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL … | C. Penzo | Died on House Calendar at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB269
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB269 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS REGARDING LOCATIONS FOR…”
|
TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS REGARDING LOCATIONS FOR AND GEOGRAPHIC AREAS OF A HOSPICE AGENCY. | C. Penzo | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB306
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…HIBIT FLUORIDATION OF THE WATER IN THE PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM. SB306 C. Penzo TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO APP…”
|
TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO APPLY FOR A HOME- AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES … | C. Penzo | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB311
Act 772
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…estrictions designating areas as 'Members and Staff Only'. SB311 C. Penzo TO CREATE THE END ORGAN AND GENOMIC HARVESTING ACT…”
|
TO CREATE THE END ORGAN AND GENOMIC HARVESTING ACT; TO PROHIBIT COVERAGE OF CERTAIN HUMAN … | C. Penzo | Notification that SB311 is now Act 772 |
|
SB312
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB312 Stone TO REMOVE THE MORATORIUM ON THE CONSTRUCTION OR ADDIT…”
|
TO REMOVE THE MORATORIUM ON THE CONSTRUCTION OR ADDITION OF ANY ADDITIONAL BEDS WITHIN PSYCHIATRIC … | Stone | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB497
Act 655
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…UOUS GLUCOSE MONITORS WITHIN THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM. SB497 D. Wallace TO REQUIRE THE CREATION OF A POSTER REGARDING VE…”
|
TO REQUIRE THE CREATION OF A POSTER REGARDING VETERANS' BENEFITS AND SERVICES; AND TO REQUIRE … | D. Wallace | Notification that SB497 is now Act 655 |
|
SB532
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…ES; AND TO REQUIRE CERTAIN EMPLOYERS TO DISPLAY THE POSTER. SB532 Hester TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "SPECIALTY HOSPITAL" RELA…”
|
TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "SPECIALTY HOSPITAL" RELATING TO THE ASSESSMENT FEE ON HOSPITALS UNDER … | Hester | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB556
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB556 M. Johnson TO PROTECT PUBLIC DRINKING WATER SOURCES; AND TO…”
|
TO PROTECT PUBLIC DRINKING WATER SOURCES; AND TO PROHIBIT SURFACE DISCHARGE OF WASTEWATER INTO A … | M. Johnson | Sine Die adjournment |
|
SB557
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…SMENT FEE ON HOSPITALS UNDER THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM. SB557 M. Johnson TO AMENDS LAW CONCERNING WATER PERMITS AND DISCH…”
|
TO AMENDS LAW CONCERNING WATER PERMITS AND DISCHARGE OF WASTEWATER; TO AUTHORIZE DENIALS OF APPLICANTS … | M. Johnson | Sine Die adjournment |
|
SB576
Act 623
· 2 mentions in agenda, chapter
Matched: “…en. Fredrick J. Love REGULAR AGENDA Number Sponsor Subtitle SB576 B. Davis TO AMEND THE COVERAGE OF CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITO…”
|
TO AMEND THE COVERAGE OF CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORS WITHIN THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM. | B. Davis | Notification that SB576 is now Act 623 |
|
SB585
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB585 G. Leding TO REQUIRE CERTAIN RECORDS BE PROVIDED TO AN EMPL…”
|
TO REQUIRE CERTAIN RECORDS BE PROVIDED TO AN EMPLOYEE WHO IS A MINOR. | G. Leding | Died on House Calendar at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB587
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB587 G. Leding TO CREATE THE PARENTS' PEACE OF MIND ACT; TO ESTA…”
|
TO CREATE THE PARENTS' PEACE OF MIND ACT; TO ESTABLISH AUTHORIZATION FOR AND USE OF … | G. Leding | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB589
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB589 C. Penzo TO CREATE THE 340B PROGRAM TRANSPARENCY ACT; AND T…”
|
TO CREATE THE 340B PROGRAM TRANSPARENCY ACT; AND TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING TRANSPARENCY AND … | C. Penzo | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB591
Act 973
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB591 C. Penzo TO PROHIBIT RACE-SELECTION ABORTION IN THIS STATE;…”
|
TO PROHIBIT RACE-SELECTION ABORTION IN THIS STATE; AND TO CREATE THE RACE DISCRIMINATION BY ABORTION … | C. Penzo | Notification that SB591 is now Act 973 |
|
SB601
Act 971
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB601 Hester TO CREATE A PATHWAY FOR A GRADUATE OF A FOREIGN MEDI…”
|
TO CREATE A PATHWAY FOR A GRADUATE OF A FOREIGN MEDICAL SCHOOL TO BE LICENSED … | Hester | Notification that SB601 is now Act 971 |
|
SB603
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB603 C. Tucker TO REQUIRE AN AIR AMBULANCE TO CONTACT THE ARKANS…”
|
TO CREATE EMMA'S LAW; AND TO REQUIRE AN AIR AMBULANCE TO CONTACT THE ARKANSAS TRAUMA … | C. Tucker | Died in House at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB606
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB606 B. Davis TO AMEND THE USED TIRE RECYCLING AND ACCOUNTABILIT…”
|
TO AMEND THE USED TIRE RECYCLING AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT; TO CREATE THE TIRE MANAGEMENT AND … | B. Davis | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB95
· 2 mentions in chapter, agenda
Matched: “SB95 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS ATHLETIC TRAINERS ACT; AND T…”
|
TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS ATHLETIC TRAINERS ACT; AND TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF "ATHLETE" WITHIN … | C. Penzo | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
HB1456
Act 852
· 1 mention in chapter
Matched: “HB1456 Rose TO AMEND THE STATE KIDNEY DISEASE COMMISSION TO BE AN…”
|
TO AMEND THE STATE KIDNEY DISEASE COMMISSION TO BE AN ADVISORY COUNCIL TO THE DEPARTMENT … | Rose | Notification that HB1456 is now Act 852 |
|
HB1523
Act 951
· 1 mention in chapter
Matched: “HB1523 Vaught CONCERNING MISSING PERSONS ALERTS; TO CODIFY THE ARK…”
|
CONCERNING MISSING PERSONS ALERTS; TO CODIFY THE ARKANSAS AMBER ALERT SYSTEM; TO CODIFY THE ARKANSAS … | Vaught | Notification that HB1523 is now Act 951 |
|
HB1619
Act 634
· 1 mention in chapter
Matched: “HB1619 Gramlich TO SET ADMINISTRATION FEES UNDER THE ARKANSAS MEDI…”
|
TO SET ADMINISTRATION FEES UNDER THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM FOR IMMUNIZATIONS AND MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES FOR … | Gramlich | Notification that HB1619 is now Act 634 |
|
HB1682
Act 942
· 1 mention in chapter
Matched: “HB1682 Puryear TO CREATE THE GOOD NEIGHBOR ACT; AND TO CLARIFY FOO…”
|
TO CREATE THE GOOD NEIGHBOR ACT; AND TO CLARIFY FOOD DONATION LIABILITY AND IMMUNITY. | Puryear | Notification that HB1682 is now Act 942 |
|
SB110
· 1 mention in chapter
Matched: “SB110 C. Penzo TO AUTHORIZE CERTIFIED NURSE AIDES OR CERTIFIED NU…”
|
TO AUTHORIZE CERTIFIED NURSE AIDES OR CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANTS WHO PROVIDE IN-HOME SERVICES TO BENEFICIARIES … | C. Penzo | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB221
· 1 mention in agenda
Matched: “…ERM CARE FACILITIES. DEFERRED BILLS Number Sponsor Subtitle SB221 B. Davis TO PROHIBIT RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATIONS FROM…”
|
TO PROHIBIT RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATIONS FROM USING CERTAIN TYPES OF CONTRACTING PRACTICES WHEN CONTRACTING WITH … | B. Davis | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB273
· 1 mention in agenda
Matched: “…OVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE ACT; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY. SB273 D. Wallace TO REQUIRE DIALYSIS CENTERS TO HAVE A BACKUP GEN…”
|
TO REQUIRE DIALYSIS CENTERS TO HAVE A BACKUP GENERATOR ON SITE. | D. Wallace | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB474
· 1 mention in chapter
Matched: “SB474 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS;…”
|
TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS; AND TO ALLOW THE BOARD OF A … | C. Penzo | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB542
· 1 mention in agenda
Matched: “…EQUIRE DIALYSIS CENTERS TO HAVE A BACKUP GENERATOR ON SITE. SB542 B. Davis TO AMEND THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE…”
|
TO AMEND THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE ACT; TO IMPROVE THE ENROLLMENT AND SELECTION PROCESS … | B. Davis | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
|
SB543
· 1 mention in agenda
Matched: “…GANIZATIONS; AND TO EMPOWER BENEFICIARIES WITH INFORMATION. SB543 B. Davis TO REQUIRE CERTAIN REIMBURSEMENT RATES FOR HOME- A…”
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TO REQUIRE CERTAIN REIMBURSEMENT RATES FOR HOME- AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES WITHIN RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATIONS. | B. Davis | Died in Senate Committee at Sine Die adjournment. |
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SB598
Act 743
· 1 mention in agenda
Matched: “…Y- BASED SERVICES WITHIN RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATIONS. SB598 J. English TO AMEND VARIOUS LAWS RELATED TO THE DIVISION OF…”
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TO AMEND VARIOUS LAWS RELATED TO THE DIVISION OF WORKFORCE SERVICES; AND TO AMEND THE … | J. English | Notification that SB598 is now Act 743 |
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- October 7, 2026
So, you know, understand there's bad weather out there, so if you need to leave, I understand that. Make sure that you sign in for testimony on a bill, but majority of the bills that we're going to hear today are going to be,
or tonight, will be Senate bills. But we're going to start with Representative Shepard, because he's here. And so Representative Shepard has a
bill that we're going to present first, and we have an amendment on this bill. I will make a motion to adopt the amendment.
Second. All those in favor say aye. And opposed. Amendment is adopted. You are now recognized to present House Bill, what
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
0:41
number is that? 1429? 1429. We
are on House Bill 1429 as amended. Thank you. Thank
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
0:49
you, Madam Chair. Senators, House Bill 1429 is a bill that
I filed. As you can see, Representative Johnson and Senator Irvin are my co-sponsors.
This was actually brought to me by my local hospital in El Dorado. One of the challenges that exist, and I've had to kind of learn about this, and there's some doctors here that can testify in favor of this bill as well that could shed more light on it, is that you have, I guess, your general screening mammogram and then there can be a follow-up with a diagnostic mammogram when that is needed for further evaluation. Currently, under Arkansas law and under the rules of the Department of Health,
the diagnostic mammogram has to be performed with a radiologist on site. And that's a problem in rural Arkansas. I believe the testimony from my local hospital and the House Committee was that they've not had a radiologist able to be on site for the better part of two years. And so as a practical matter, you have women that need a follow-up, need a diagnostic mammogram. They're not able to be provided in rural Arkansas. And obviously, it would be preferred that they get to Little Rock or get to some other
location where that can be performed with a radiologist on site. But as a practical matter, that's not going to, not every woman is going to do that. And so this is really an accessibility issue. My understanding is that the better, over 30 states allow for this to occur. And we actually, with Dr. Johnson, Representative Johnson's help, we worked with a number of different radiologists to put an amendment on in the House end to state that this would be performed via telemedicine
and that a radiologist would be immediately available. We were able to pass it with broad support in the House committee and out of the House. On the Senate end, I believe there's been some radiologists that have raised some issues, again on this end, that proposed some amendments. We could agree to some, but not all of that. And so that's the amendment that you have before you, which provides that the patient, if this is going to be performed via telemedicine with a radiologist immediately available through telemedicine,
that the patient would have to sign a waiver first acknowledging that this remote access is not, that there's limitations compared to in-person access. And then secondly, those results need, the evaluation results need to be immediately available. And so, you know, I think this is a common sense bill. I think that it's going to provide access that we need across the state of Arkansas.
And it's also, this is a service that many of our rural hospitals are not able to perform right now. But by way of this legislation, we're going to be able to provide this service across the state. And I'd be glad to answer any questions. As I said, I have several doctors here that I believe have signed up to speak in favor of it that could
also answer questions as needed. Senator Payton, you're recognized. Thank you, Madam
Senator John Payton
Unverified
4:12
Chair. I guess this is a curiosity question, but what changed? I mean, I'm certain that the rural hospitals used to be able to do this.
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
4:20
I'm not sure. I'm not sure what has changed. You know, what brought this to the forefront, I think, is like in El Dorado, There were radiologists that might be in El Dorado at the hospital part of a day or one day a week. And quite honestly, I think that we have a shortage of radiologists, just like we have a shortage of a number of different physicians and nurses. But I'm not sure what ultimately led to this rule in the first place. Well, and it
Senator John Payton
Unverified
4:44
sounds like it may be necessary that we do this, but it's kind of like what came first, the chicken or the egg. I mean, I think we've had so many services that have become telehealth
and over the communications with reading x-rays and stuff like that, that the Royal Hospitals no longer keep a radiologist on staff. So maybe the shortage became because there was a shortage of jobs. But anyway, I assume this is probably going to be necessary.
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
5:10
I think so. I mean, I don't take, as you all know, I
don't run many bills in public health. I take, obviously, public health matters very seriously. no doubt that it would be preferred to have a doctor on site, but the fact of the matter,
I think there'll be testimony from some of the doctors that are here that they're as high as 30 to 40 percent of women that need to go back for a diagnostic mammogram in some areas of Arkansas that will never go because it's not immediately available in their local communities.
Thank you. Thank you. I too am confused because I know that we have interpreting physicians that
are part of the same health system that are not on site in Mountain View, Arkansas, that are actually in Batesville.
So I guess that again, when he brought the bill to me, I was confused just as you were as to why we're not able to continue, why we aren't able to do this without the legislation. But I
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
6:13
appreciate the explanation. I think that I'd worked with the governor's office and the Department of Health. I think
that there could have been the opportunity to just change some rules, but the feeling was since we were headed into a regular session,
just to make sure it gets done, it made sense to go ahead and bring this legislation.
Yes. Did you have a question? okay any other questions seeing none okay we do have folks to speak for and against this bill um they'll come forward uh i would just ask you to keep your comments as brief as you can thank you John Metters
Speaker 38
7:19
I'm John Metters I'm a radiologist with Radiology Associates to your point you thought that your
Speaker 39
7:25
radiologists read in Mountain View from Batesville, and they do. We read every single radiology study that's made. I'm almost never physically in the location where the x-rays or CTs or PET scans are generated. This is the only part of radiology that's not that way. And to your point, there are not enough radiologists. There are more than three jobs waiting for every radiology
resident finishing in the country. And whatever problem we're having now, and it's a crisis, And we're in a state where revenue for physicians is down. We're having really trouble, I mean, a lot of trouble trying to recruit. We can't recruit against Georgia and Texas, so we don't have enough radiologists. Two of my other partners who are here, they're the ones who are still driving to a lot of these locations. I personally have made over 200 trips down to El Dorado, a lot to Camden. We still cover Warren, Magnolia.
A lot of these places, it is all about access. And, you know, I'm not going to bore you all with all the heartbreaking stories of the women who they come back a year later and they beg to try and have a screening because there are no radiologists there. And there's likely not going to be. So a big, huge part of this is, in fact, access. I mean, when you think about the poor and indigent patients here in Pulaski County, I mean, most of the time they can ride a bus to get where they need to go. But for a lot of these south Arkansas counties, and even to your point, in north central Arkansas,
they don't have the reason, a lot of homes don't have a car. So I want to shift gears from access. A lot of this comes down to quality as well. And you're going to hear from some radiologists. They're great radiologists. They care, and that's why they're here. And they're going to, maybe they're going to talk about ultrasound because that was one of the amendments that they tried to put in. I read ultrasounds every day. I read OB ultrasounds.
I read gallbladder ultrasounds from hospitals all across the state. But these ultrasound techs there, they're also the ones doing the breast ultrasound. Are they going to be as good as ultrasound techs at a breast center here in Pulaski County or Faulkner County or Washington and Benton County? No. They're not. In 2008, and that's the earliest white paper that I remember from the American College of Radiology, they said off-site diagnostic mammography is not ideal.
It's best when the radiologist is on site, if the radiologist, if she or he needs to do a breast exam, maybe they're not finding what they want, and sometimes you can feel the thing, and then you can take the ultrasound probe yourself and put it on there. If we're not on site, then we can't do that. And so we're depending on the ultrasound tech. If we know based on the mammogram, there should be a mass. And if they're not seeing it, well, we can help them on the mammogram. If a woman's there for calcifications, we can look at the image and we're talking with the techs real
time, say you missed them. They're a little bit higher, center higher. But this is really one of the main rubs of this is the quality of the ultrasound techs. We cover 23 hospitals in this state. Most of them are rural. We have a lot of experience. I also think it's a little unfair that our radiologist, and we are known as the group that drives to all these towns, and it's been used against us negatively in recruiting. I think it's unfair that we're
having to put our radiologists on the road most days of the week for more than an hour's drive, in a lot of cases two hours drive. For those rare cases where there might be an ultrasound tech, that is not going to be as good and maybe can't find it. Those instances are rare. You're going to hear from my partners about the quality of these ultrasound techs. And this is not something that I'm pledging that radiology associates will do in the future. This is something we do now and have done. When we go to some of these sites and we realize that the ultrasound techs,
their quality is not as good as what we're used to seeing, say, at St. Vincent's. We bring them to our breast center in Little Rock. They spend a week with us. They're also scanning patients. They're seeing how it's done in a center of excellence. Does that mean they're going to be as good as our ultrasound techs there? No. But they're also going to be the only ultrasound techs in those communities. And again, this comes down to access. But when you know that every month at El Dorado, and Representative Shepard said 30% to 40%,
But every month, looking at the statistics from El Dorado, Union County, 30 to 50% on any individual month, they're not getting it. They're not coming back. Some of those women are able to go to either Magnolia or Camden, but a lot of them can't. I'm sorry. I know I've
Speaker 41
12:25
talked enough, and you asked me to agree. No, you're fine. I appreciate
it. Any questions? Senator Pate. Sorry, I'm full of questions.
Senator John Payton
Unverified
12:39
At times, I wasn't sure whether you were speaking for or against it when you were saying the quality is not going to be as good. I mean, I understand access is important, but if you think you've been scanned and it was negative when actually there's something there that they didn't find, Isn't that a worse situation than knowing that you haven't been checked?
Speaker 41
13:07
No. Let me put it to you a different way.
Speaker 39
13:12
If you do screening mammography in any population, whether it's in Sweden or the United States, we know that those women that undergo screening have a much higher survival rate and their cancers are much more easily treatable versus a population that's not screened. But I would argue that if you do screening, but you have no way to do the diagnostic mammogram, it's almost like they weren't screened because you can't go to the next step. I mentioned the fact that the quality is not going to be as good with the ultrasound techs.
The American College of Radiology even said off-site diagnostic telemammography is not ideal, and it should only be reserved for those times when access is an issue. And I'm not going to say that every ultrasound tech in the state is capable of doing it, but the ones that we've encountered that we think are not, we've tried to make better, or we've said we won't work with them anymore. But that is going to be an issue because the ultrasound techs aren't going to be as good. Does that mean that we shouldn't do this?
No, we absolutely should do this. And I think that the quality is adequate. Are there going to be women every now and then that I'm looking? Because normally what would happen, let's say that the ultrasound tech says, man, Dr. Matters, I just didn't feel it, or I didn't find it. Well, I get up out of my chair and I go in there and I scan. Now, most of the time, if the ultrasound tech can't find it, I can't either. But there are going to be those times that I will find something. That's what we're missing. And that's one tiny, small piece of the puzzle.
That's a very small fraction. I mean, most of the time, the ultrasound techs, they always find
Speaker 38
14:53
it. They almost never have to scan. And that's true no matter which hospital that
I'm at. Okay. Thank you. I will say this because the opportunity has presented itself. A, we need more radiologists, but we need more doctors. That's why I'm passing the Arkansas Rural Preceptorship Program, number one, for rural Arkansas and lots of other things. But number two, we need ultrasound techs.
We keep talking about workforce as issues. I am tired of talking about career and technical ed centers. We have to have ultrasound technicians. Why? Because when an insurance company denies a surgery or whatever, they require a different procedure and a test. Generally, when they require these type of additional diagnostics, it's going to be ultrasounds before they go into surgery or because it's a cheaper version. And, you know, if we can figure out what it is, then they'll alterize further treatment.
But that diagnostic is really critical and important. That has backed up a ton of ultrasounds, by the way. And so, but I would argue that our ultrasound techs that are in remote locations, particularly where I have lived all these years, because we haven't had a radiologist since Dr. Kearns passed away in Mountain View years and years and years and years ago. But, I mean, we have fabulous ultrasound technicians. They're so good. And a lot of times, I
mean, I guess I would just have to argue that a lot of times these ultrasound technicians
are very skilled because they're doing ultrasounds on all kinds of different areas of the body.
So I think that's really critically important to know. Like, their training is very, very good. And anyway, I just think I'm a huge supporter
of these ultrasound technicians because we need probably quadruple the workforce that we have right now. But thank you for your testimony. Very, very informative. No other
questions for him. We'll go to against Scott Harder.
Sorry, Scott Harder. one at a
Speaker 63
17:19
time i said i i called for scott harder yes
Speaker 65
17:22
i am scott harder do you want to pass your
time to amanda farrell okay okay dr amanda farrell Hi, I'm Dr.
Speaker 69
17:38
Amanda Farrell. Thank you for letting me speak, Madam Chairwoman and Committee.
I am a private practice radiologist. I finished training in 2002 and I joined radiology consultants. We're the group that covers the Baptist Health System. I am our, I'm the medical director of breast imaging at Baptist Health and I have been since 2006. I did my residency at UAMS and I did Fellowship in Breast Imaging at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. I am against
House Bill 1429. I'm opposed for a lot of different reasons, but first I wanted to say the most important thing to me is the ultrasound piece, and I kind of want to explain kind of how breast imaging works. We've done remote screening for years. Screening mammograms are done on patients who are having no problems, no symptoms. They come in and they get their basic four views. We read the mammogram. We have 30 days by MQSA, which is the law that regulates mammography.
And we've been doing that for years. That's no problem. And in fact, White River, there's a fellowship trained breast imager there who reads for Mountain View. She's very good. So diagnostic Mammograms are performed on patients who are, they feel something new. Maybe they have some symptoms, fullness in the underarm. Maybe they think they have enlarged lymph nodes. They have skin changes. They have nipple discharge. Their doctor felt something or we're following something
up. The patient will not leave our department until we have done whatever combination of mammograms and ultrasounds we need to do to decide that the patient is okay for another year so she can come back for her next screening because everything cleared up at the end of all this imaging. Or we think everything is fine, it looks pretty good, but there's something we just want to keep our eyes on and we want her to come back for a six-month follow-up sequence, which we carry out over two years. We see them every six months. Or we decide she needs a biopsy. And then we talk to
patient in person once we're done with all that imaging and give her her results and go all over it and give her a chance to ask any questions. At the time of ultrasound, we will ultrasound. I mean, even in the breast center, I have experienced texts. Last week, there was a patient that had a finding. The text couldn't find it. I went in, put the transducer down, and there it was. I mean, it happens even with experienced technologists. But if the patient has a palpable, you go in,
you feel it, make sure you know what you're looking at and then ultrasound yourself. The tech will do it. But most people who feel something new, it's normal breast tissue. So most of the time they're bringing you an image of normal breast tissue. So you don't know, does that mean did they miss something that's there? Or is it just one of the average cases where it's normal. So you go in and scan yourself, feel what they're feeling, and I always like to roll my finger over what they're feeling while I've got the ultrasound there so I can see and
I can show the patient. I'm feeling what you felt. Here's the screen. This is normal. So that's what we like to do. And the reason that breast imaging and breast ultrasound is different from other parts of radiology because, to Dr. Meadors' point, we have been doing remote ultrasound for years. I read OB ultrasounds from Baptist Health all over the state. But when you're looking at an OB
ultrasound, there are metrics. There are things that you measure. You measure the head circumference at a certain level, the abdominal circumference at a certain level. With the breast, when we're doing breast ultrasound, I have one landmark, and it's the nipple. And depending on how the patient is positioned or how pendulous the breasts are, I may say I see something on the mammogram at three o'clock, five centimeters from the nipple, but that's with the patient standing upright. She's pulled into the machine with compression, and on ultrasound, she's lying on a table on her back,
arm above her head, depending on how far up she's rolled. So if they don't find you something at three o'clock, five centimeters to the nipple, they have to know to look in the area. So it's not as easy as other parts. And as you say, they're a phenomenal technologist. They do all kinds of studies. They're really skilled people. But having that 3D correlation to look at the mammogram and know where to scan, it's really different. And I find things that my
seasoned techs don't find. The last time I went to Stuttgart of the four patients who needed ultrasound, I re-scanned after three of them. One was exactly what I wanted. She brought me what I thought I was going to find. The other three, she did not bring me what I found, what I was thinking we would find. One was a cancer that I went and I found because I knew where it was going to be. she just didn't find it. You know, she means well, she takes all kinds of call. She shows up,
but she didn't find that cancer. And three of the four cases, it was something different, you know? So there's a big difference between breast ultrasound and general ultrasound because of our one landmark, all these limitations. The other thing is I don't have a problem with remote diagnostic mammography because when the tech brings me a mammogram image, we have very specific
qualities that we're looking for to say it's a quality image to say that we have included all the breast tissue. I'm on the clinical image review committee for the state. We are the accrediting body for many of the mammography facilities in Arkansas. So I'm evaluating film quality at all times. On a mammogram, I can tell whether or not they have included the area I'm looking at. So it's a very different game. I don't ever have that feeling of, gosh, did they hit the right area or not? Did they get all the tissue or not? Because it's apparent on the mammogram
whether or not they have included all the tissue I need to see. And I'm evaluating the mammogram image for quality. So it's very different. I don't have a problem doing remote diagnostics. The slippery slope of doing a remote diagnostic is if you call them back for a mass and they're still a mass, the next step is an ultrasound. So I would still rather not do remote ultrasounds because of that hands-on component. And all my friends who are fellowship trained and who are
doing remote diagnostics around the country and yes it is happening all over the country they hate it because you have that out of control feeling and you know that for some people you're not going to do a good job for them you are not going to do a good job for them you're going to miss things because you're not going to be able to go in and scan yourself so allowing remote diagnostic ultrasounds is to me the illusion of access. So you're providing that
service, but it's not good, which is why the waiver is important because people think that if they're getting this expensive test that's really important and we're doing it this way, it's going to be equivalent and it's not. And that's all I have. Thank
you. Do you have questions? Senator Willis, do you have
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
25:40
a question? Thank you, ma'am. I think it's wonderful what you do, and I appreciate it. My problem in my district, Blaval, Arkansas, 60 miles from Jonesboro, 60 miles from Memphis,
we can't get staff in that little hospital. What can we do? I mean, this bill sounds like it will help us. It may not be the best, but it's something because my people are poor, but they have cars that won't go 10 miles, let alone 60. And I really appreciate what you're saying, what you're doing. Yeah,
Speaker 70
26:17
yeah. I know it's hard. It is hard. I will not deny that because we
Speaker 87
26:22
are a poor rural state and we have people who don't have cars and don't have means.
Thank you, ma'am. Thank you, Madam Chair, and we need
Senator John Payton
Unverified
26:40
to be brief because it's late and we've got a lot of bills. I'm sorry. But from what I've gathered real quick here, it seems that you and the previous person that was for it both agree we have an access problem. You disagree with this bill, he agrees with it. Can you briefly tell me what your suggestion would be on how to handle that, how to help
Speaker 69
27:01
the problem? I would be okay doing a remote diagnostic mammogram, but not doing remote ultrasounds. And if they need an ultrasound, if they could come to one of the places where there is an on-site radiologist to do that evaluation so that if you need to backscan, because what's going to happen is we're going to leave our least experienced ultrasound technologists with the least amount of supervision and backup.
So if we can allow, I'm fine doing a remote diagnostic mammogram, but not a diagnostic remote ultrasound. Having an on-site radiologist for ultrasound, breast ultrasound, it makes the whole difference. Okay, thank you. Any other questions from members of the committee? Seeing none, we
will go to somebody who is for it, and then we go to somebody that's against it. Thank you for your time. Thank you. So we
have signed up to come speak for it.
David Thomas, Tamas, thank you. Thanks for hearing me. I
Speaker 100
28:15
think your questions were excellent, Dr. Senator Payton and Senator Irvin and Wallace. I'm for
Speaker 102
28:20
this bill. I think it has to happen. My hair skipped gray and went straight to white. I've got more experience than anyone in this room, with the greatest respect for Dr. Farrell.
You know, somebody just said that it's okay to do OB ultrasound remotely, but not breast ultrasound. I'm telling you, I've been in practice 37 years here. I trained at Duke, where I served as chief resident, did my radiology training there. I did extra training at ultrasound. I will tell you, OB ultrasound is one of the hardest things we do. Everybody knows that when you can't walk in the room, it might be good to be able to do that practically. You just can't do it. We have been driving in this practice to these remote sites for years. We had to do it because mammograms were on a film and we couldn't send them.
Now, the game changer is we can do SYN-A ultrasound. We can pan through and send a block of data. It's actually excellent. I was initially against this years ago, but I've come around, and now the equipment is so good, the tools are so good that I think we have to do it. I have personally been to sites and watched the doctors do remote mammography and ultrasound. The two go together. You really can't separate them, if you're honest, in my opinion. I've done this in North Carolina and in New York City. My mother had breast cancer, so I got involved in this a long time ago. It is an
ungracious way to die. All the advanced breast cancers that we see are from the remote parts of the state. Ladies just will not go and navigate the Baptist hospital system, which is excellent. They just won't get a mammogram. And so the big cancers. So in the mammal world, cancer is fixing breast cancers, finding them when they're little. When you don't get a mammogram, you come in with these stage 3 and stage 2b cancers. And these people testify, they know that. But I'm telling you, this has to happen. They do it in 37 states. I appreciate your support. I'm not going to talk
anymore. Are there any questions? Do you have any questions
from members of the committee? I appreciate your being here and your testimony. Thank you, sir. Thank
Speaker 108
30:30
you for listening. Thank you, doctor. Now against Dr. Scott Harder. Thanks to the committee for hearing our views. I'm Dr. Scott Harder. I've been in practice here for... Thank you. I'm Dr. Scott Harder. I've been in practice here in
Speaker 110
30:41
Arkansas for 34 years, my entire career. I've been doing mammography and ultrasound for that entire period of time.
in private practice for 28 years, 11 years. I was Dr. Meador's job as president and CEO of that practice. Ran over a quarter million breast examinations during my career. And I've driven thousands of miles in the state to do this study, this mammography and ultrasound the way it should be done, which is with a radiologist present. I have a lot of passion for my job. I love my patients. I love my job. I'm here today because I think there's a lot of negative impacts to this too.
For years across the United States, diagnostic mammography and ultrasound were only performed in the presence of a radiologist. And why? Because it's self-evident, it's obvious that's the right way to do it the only safe way to do it it's yes it started a few years ago some for you know for economic and convenience reasons uh people started doing remote diagnostic mammography and ultrasound they could their states never thought that anyone would want to do it otherwise so there's a loophole
there they can but here in this in the great state of arkansas back in the 80s we wanted to do it right. So we codified this and said, you've got to have a radiologist on site. That's the way we want to do it and it needs to be done. Again, it's just self-evident that this is the safe way to provide really good care for our patients. You know, this bill is an act to increase accessibility while ensuring
Speaker 122
32:26
quality for certain facilities performing mammography. You could entitle it an
to increase accessibility to lesser care, poor care,
Speaker 110
32:36
maybe bad medicine. Only one radiology group in our state is for this. Two of the representatives have spoken well
Speaker 122
32:47
tonight about why they think it's a good idea.
Speaker 110
32:53
This group assimilated many small practices, including the one Camden, I mean, excuse me, Camden, El Dorado, back in the '80s and,
I mean, excuse me, the '90s and 2000s, you know, that was their business model. I don't blame them. You know, that was good for them. But every business model has this risk and this rewards, and then they've, you know, been financially lucrative over the years with covering these practices. But now, when things are tough, when they don't want to drive to these places anymore, like it should, then I want to change the rules and decrease the level of care. The majority of radiologists in the state do not support this. Like I said, one group of radiologists,
not a single fellowship trained breast imager, a person who is trained to be an expert in breast imaging in Arkansas is supportive of this bill. That says something. These are the people who are the best in our state those who you can speak into
the mic please excuse me sorry these are
Speaker 132
33:54
the people who are recognized there's a video
you're on video feed okay so you want to speak into the mic so everybody can see you and hear you sorry it's
Speaker 122
34:05
okay hadn't done this before i know it's okay
but these none of them favor this
Speaker 110
34:13
bill none of them think it's a good idea It's interesting all this comes, you know, all this pressure to do this comes in El Dorado where a competitor, Quartai, is placing a breast center that's opening this month with a fellowship-trained breast imager at that location. It'll be a limited capacity at first,
Speaker 122
34:32
but over time it'll expand. So in closing,
Speaker 110
34:37
I'd urge you to vote to maintain these high standards
in breast care in Arkansas, standards that we can be proud of, that we should be proud of, continue to provide the best care that we can, even if it's inconvenient, for all our Kansans. I say vote no to House Bill 1429. And I thank you. I thank the committee. I thank Dr. Farrell, Dr. Meadors, Dr. Tamas. I appreciate y'all hearing our points of view. Thank you. Do you mind answering a question
for me real quick? Okay, thank you. Now, where are you located again?
Speaker 122
35:14
I work at the university now. I've been, I
Speaker 110
35:17
was in private practice for 28 years, and I've been at the university for five years, and all I do is
go STEMG. UAMS? Yes. Okay, but you're here individually
or on behalf of UAMS? I'm here individually. Okay, just want to
Speaker 122
35:33
make sure we clarify that. And then, do
Speaker 110
35:36
you travel anywhere? Not now. I have. I have traveled all all over the state, driven thousands of miles, doing this, going to places to do mammography and ultrasound, because as Dr. Farrell echoed or has said, it's so different doing breast
Speaker 122
35:51
ultrasound. That's the kind of care that you want, Senator. Well, I live in
Mountain View, so. What? I live in Mountain View, so just a quick question. 80s, I think it said you, is when this was codified. Is that correct? Yes. Okay. Technology clearly has advanced. Would you agree with that? I would. Okay. So, and
what year did the 3D imaging come on board for mammography?
Speaker 122
36:21
I know Baxter Health in Mountain View was one of the first. It became first in the state in
Speaker 110
36:30
2014. Okay. And then more gradual adoption by different practices into the last strong adoption. It's still being adopted. It's not quite everywhere yet, though it
has a high penetration. And the remote mammography units that go out? The
Speaker 110
36:44
remote mammography I have no problem with. It's the ultrasound deal. I mean, that being able there to talk to that patient, ask them questions, hear their symptoms,
not just see what's written on a piece of paper, but see that person. Then if you need to, lay hands on the breast, feel this. Does this feel like what these pictures look like? The ultrasound text sent? I'm not sure about that. Then I put my hand on there and I scan myself. I find that Dr. Mehta says that rarely does he scan his patients. I scan almost everyone. And I find things all the time that my breast,
that my texts, that's all they do. It's, you know, they do mammography, breast ultrasound. They're very good at it. They miss stuff or misinterpret stuff all the time that on tele, you know, on tele-ultrasound, you are not going to see, you are not going to, we're going to give people false reassurance that they're okay through this method. - Senator Payton, you have questions. - To your point of view a moment ago, that's not good. You have a question to recognize for question.
Senator John Payton
Unverified
38:03
had some problems, and they said my veins in my neck might be clogged up, and I've done an ultrasound. Yes, sir. They said it was clogged up, and I needed to consider surgery. A month later, the surgeon does an ultrasound, says, no, it's not that bad. and then I think it was a couple years later, the third ultrasound said it's all gone.
As far as I know, all three of these were performed in Heber Springs, and they were sent via computer to somebody down here in Lurrock that was reading them. So how is that different than what we're talking
Speaker 115
38:50
about with the breast imaging? As Dr. Farrell mentioned, the breast is just a different thing. I
Senator John Payton
Unverified
38:55
mean, it's unique. So legally, as far as the Arkansas Code, they can diagnose and determine whether or not my veins are blocked with the ultrasound being done in Heber Springs and Red and Little Rock.
Is that correct? Yes. Okay. And so this would be equating the breast imaging to that? Yes,
Speaker 122
39:19
this would say that breast imaging is no more complicated, that anybody can do it and do a
Speaker 110
39:27
good job of it, which is just not true. So it's going to lower the standards that were set back in the 1980s appropriately and kept for many years that a radiologist ought to be present for this examination.
It's unique and special, but our women are special. Grandmas, wives, daughters, aunts, nieces, they deserve the best we can give. And this is not it. Thank you. Thank you. Any
other questions for members of the committee? All right. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for your testimony. And just, Dr. Farrell, do you mind just coming back and just stating for me again your name and who you're with, but you're here as an individual, is that correct?
I just want to make sure we're
Speaker 158
40:17
clear for your record. Okay. Yeah, I am a member of Radiology Consultants. We're the group at Baptist Health, and I am here on the behalf of my group, Radiology Consultants. Okay.
Thank you. Thank you so much. Just needed to have that part of the record. Okay. Lastly, we
Speaker 161
40:33
have somebody for the bill, Dr. John. Okay. Come forward. You can
state your name for the record for me, and I apologize. Sometimes I don't get to read.
John Fravel
Unverified
40:45
I'm married to a doctor. My name is John Fravel. I work with Radiology Associates, and I've been with them for
Speaker 167
40:52
27 years. And I've been doing mammography the entire time as well. I have two points I wanted to make with regard to imaging. One is, as you've said, technology has advanced over the years. And there are machines available now where you can video conference with the technologists and watch them scan, you're not relying on them just to do a scan and send you pictures.
You can actually watch them scan the patient and video conference with the technologist at the same time that they're doing the imaging and determine whether or not they're in the right spot or not. It's not a guess anymore. The other thing is I wanted to point out was that the rare cases that we're talking about where something could get missed are non-palpable lesions. the patient comes in with a palpable mass, I don't care if the technologist is in Magnolia,
Camden, Warren, or Little Rock, they're not going to miss a palpable mass. They're going to know where those lesions are. They're going to scan over the area of palpable concern and there's either going to be a lesion there or there's not. So the concern that we have are the patients that have non-palpable masses that are detected on mammography and on screening mammography and We're bringing them in for not only a diagnostic mammogram, but also a diagnostic ultrasound. Majority of cases that we have with non-palpable masses where things are not seen are put back in follow-up.
They're not just forgotten about for a year. They are allowed to come back at a three-month interval or six-month interval and be scanned again. So if there's something small and it continues to get larger, we're going to find it. it happens all the time. It's happening now. It's not something that's going to happen in the future if we miss something by ultrasound. We're seeing lesions like that now. So it's a myth to think that if we miss a lesion, they're going to develop a cancer that gets undetected and they're going to
die from that cancer. We follow these things. If they're small, we think they're benign, we follow them. If we see something on the mammogram, we don't see something with ultrasound, we can follow it or we can do an additional test called an MRI. So there are other options as opposed to just letting it go and forgetting about it for a year. The third point that I want to make though is on the side of manpower. You know, we are short. We're not putting out new radiologists
in order to fill the need that we have for radiologists. And right now, as Dr. Meadows points out, I'm one that travels. To go to Magnolia takes me about two hours to drive there and two hours to get back home. That's four hours that I could be sitting at a computer looking at patients and performing their diagnostic exams rather than being in the car driving to get there. So, if you saved me four hours a day for an entire month, that's probably 100 to 200 patients
that we could work up utilizing this new technology and keeping me out of the car from driving. I'm happy to drive if that's what you're asking me to do, because I want these people to be taken care of. That's why I go. But if I could use my time more efficiently, it would be much
more appreciated. So I just have a quick question. Talk to me about follow-up. Okay, so process.
The process of follow-up? Yeah, I mean, we don't go from a mammogram immediately to an ultrasound. Correct. So just
Speaker 167
44:47
walk me through the timeline of that. The majority of cases that we do in our office, when somebody comes in with a positive screening mammogram. They'll get a diagnostic mammogram that will be the first step that we usually take. And now with tomography, that's changed somewhat because tomography is like doing a CT scan of the
breast. A lot of times you'll get enough detail on the initial screening mammogram that has tomography where you can go straight to ultrasound to determine if what we're looking at is something cystic or something solid. If it's solid, we need to make a decision. Do we need to biopsy it or are we going to follow it? If it's cystic, we're finished with it. And they go
back into the screening pool. Okay. And when does the ultrasound
Speaker 169
45:36
then come into play? The ultrasound comes into play after the diagnostic exam
Speaker 167
45:41
is done. Okay. If the diagnostic exam is done for a mass,
then the ultrasound will be done to determine if that mass is cystic or
solid. Okay, so we do a regular mammogram, and then if that comes back, we
do a diagnostic mammogram. Is this all in one day for
Speaker 169
46:00
the patient? No, the screening mammogram is done separately. The patient comes, has their screening mammogram, and
leaves the office, doesn't see a physician. So then that's
read and interpreted. They're given a phone call. Then they come back, correct? And they do diagnostic, correct?
Speaker 167
46:16
Correct. Diagnostic mammogram usually, or sometimes, like I said, they will go straight to ultrasound, but the majority of our patients get a diagnostic mammogram and then an ultrasound if needed. Same day? Yes. Okay. Yes. All right.
But sometimes not same day, correct? So like if there's a diagnostic mammogram, I'm just saying. If they get a diagnostic
Speaker 169
46:39
mammogram in our office and we think they need an ultrasound, then they'll get it that day. Okay. Unless
Speaker 167
46:46
they can't stay, and then they can come back at another time.
Okay. Okay. But is there any hurdles that you have to jump through for preauthorization in order to go straight to the ultrasound? No. It's
Speaker 167
46:57
usually pre-approved ones by the time the patient gets there. Okay. All right. Thank you. But I think just to clarify, so if we see something that we don't think is a cancer and we're going to follow it up, that patient will come back at a six-month interval to see if it has changed.
That, if it is a cancer, has given it time to grow and to present itself as a cancer, as opposed to just a small nodule that we're not quite sure if it's a cancer or not. If we see something on the mammogram and we don't see something on ultrasound, we can order an MRI or we can get a follow-up ultrasound. So we're not just letting the patient go for another year. They're getting followed closely. Whether
this bill passes or not, they're still getting that follow-up in person
if there's a real issue that's going to be
Speaker 169
47:56
seen. And like I said, the technology that's available now, we can watch the technologist do the scan to know that they're scanning in
the right place. Okay. Any questions from members of the committee? All right. Seeing none, thank you so much for your testimony. Representative Shepard, you're recognized, closed for your bill.
Are there any other questions? Thank you. All right. Representative
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
48:17
Shepard. Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you, members of the committee. I appreciate the testimony from all sides on this issue.
I appreciate the passion that all of these providers have for high-quality care. And, you know, as I said at the outset, not something I take lightly. You know, this was brought to me by my local hospital. They raised this issue. They had brought it up to me actually over the course of the last couple of years. I think that with this bill, we've added the amendments that have, I think, provide additional assurance. I mean, number one, the immediate availability via telemedicine.
But then secondly, with the amendment we just placed on it today, requiring the patient to sign the disclosure and notifying them, you know, clearly if it's, you know, if it's my family that's being referred for treatment, I'm going to do whatever I can to get them the best care available. And we have with this, with the disclosure, we're notifying people of the fact that in-person would
be preferred. But my motivation in bringing this relates back to, well, two things. Number one, I believe the testimony was 37 states allow this. But then number two, I think it was Dr. Meadors that it corrected my number, that of the patients they follow, 30 to 50 percent from El Dorado would not even have that follow-up. And so clearly in a perfect world, we would prefer in-person. We don't live in a perfect world.
We have an access issue, and we're trying to address
that with this bill. Thank you. All right.
What is the pleasure of the committee? Is there any discussion? All those in favor say aye. And opposed? I have it. Congratulations. You've passed your bill. Senator Davis, Senate Bill 576.
You'll state your name for the record. You're recognized to present Senate Bill 576. Thank
Senator Breanne Davis
Unverified
50:38
you, Madam Chair. Breanne Davis, State Senate, District 25. Senate Bill 576 is just really a simple update. Currently in law, it talks about with the use of insulin two or more times daily, you can be eligible for a continuous glucose monitor. And I just struck that and said in accordance with Medicare policy,
the truth is things are always changing at the federal level on what qualifies people for different things like CGMs. And quickly, our laws are antiquated, which is why we originally had the two or more times. And that's changed just in the last four years since we've passed that. So I just put it to mirror what they're doing at the federal level to ensure that any changes they make, it's consistent with Arkansas. I'm happy to take any questions. Senator Payton? Thank you, Madam Chair.
So what is their current policy? One
or more pumps a day. Okay. Thank you. Kind of defeats the purpose of continuous glucose monitoring if you're limiting it
Senator Breanne Davis
Unverified
51:52
two times a day. Yeah, and really the technology has gotten so much better with CGMs that people are using less pumps and having less health issues. And so it's really good long-term. Yeah. Any other additional questions?
Is there anyone here to speak for
or against this bill? No. All right. You're
closed. I'm closed. Thank you. All right. Motion do pass. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. Ayes have it. Congratulations. You've
passed your bill. Senator Wallace, 497. Members, I would just state, I think tornadoes are on the ground in the state of Arkansas right now. So just take a moment.
Senator Wallace, we know that your area has been hit. You want to lead us in some prayer for the people of
the state of Arkansas right now? Everybody in the room, if you'll join us in a moment of prayer, Senator Wallace
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
52:52
will lead us in. Thank you, Madam Chair. We've had five towns already
hit in Poinsett and Gregg Head County. Oh, Lord, please watch over our people back home. Watch over Arkansas. Please protect our families, our homes, our people.
Lord, thank you for the love and for the blessings you have
given us. In Jesus' name, amen. Amen. Thank you. Senator Wallace,
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
53:24
you're recognized to present Senate Bill 497. Thank you, ma'am. State Senator Dave Wallace, District 19. Members, this is a very simple bill. It's a bill that will help our veterans. We're establishing a poster that will be placed in companies over the size of 50 people.
And they'll be required to post this, and it will help our
veterans. It tells them things such as where they can have contact information for the Department of VA, where they have contacts for substance abuse and mental health treatment, for educational opportunities, for tax
benefits, and for items such as unemployment or to pick up your VA ID, and also most importantly,
contact information for the hotline. As you know, we have 19 veterans a day that commit suicide. This will only apply to an employer in the state with 50 or more full-time employees. And this bill has, or this law is currently already
in effect in numerous states throughout the country. And with that, I stand by for your questions. Thank you. Are there any
questions from the members of the committee? I would
just say it's an excellent bill. I would have loved to have co-sponsored it with you.
I appreciate it. And it's also no cost to the employer. None.
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
54:59
A piece of paper that they can print off.
Thank you. Any questions from members of the committee? Seeing none, is there anyone here to speak for or against this bill? Seeing none, you're recognized to close. I am closed and make
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
55:13
a motion to do pass. Motion to do pass. Second, all those
in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed, ayes have it. Senate Bill 497 is passed.
Thank you, members. Okay, Senate Bill 532. I don't believe he's going to run that. Senator Johnson here, 557. Senator Stone, 312. Johnson, Ludding, 585. You're up. Senator Greg Letting, District 30.
Senator Greg Leding
Unverified
55:54
I'll have my guests introduce themselves as well.
Okay. Thank you. Please identify yourself for the record. You may be recognized. My name is
Samuel McCuller. That's okay. There's a tornado in Senator Wallace's hometown right now. Certainly understand. Okay. Please
Senator Greg Leding
Unverified
56:24
proceed. I will be very brief. The bill is pretty straightforward. This is just about adding a little protection for minors by making sure that they get a pay stub when they are paid,
in part to help teach financial literacy, but also so that they can see what they have earned for the hours that they have worked. I want to credit the individuals who are here. We have two more in the audience who I believe are going to speak in support of this legislation. They have worked for months on this, going back and forth with different lawmakers, also talking to the state chamber. In fact, there is some language down below. The chamber wanted to make sure that we limited this to companies with more than 10 employees. And so we incorporated that feedback. And really, it's really that simple. I will let my guest speak.
Speaker 206
57:05
Thank you. I want to thank you all for hearing this bill today. It's something that's really important to me personally. And I want to thank Senator Letting for allowing me to come present this bill. It's my first time. I'm a little nervous. So hopefully I mess it up. It's okay. Go right ahead. Thank you. So imagine this, a 16-year-old gets their first paycheck, they worked long hours after school balancing their job with homework and responsibilities at home, but when they look at their pay stub, if they even receive one, it's unclear. Deductions may be taken out, but they may not know why.
The total pay may not seem to match the hours they worked, but they don't know how to check. And if they ask questions, they may just be brushed off or ignored. This is the reality for a lot of working minors in the state of Arkansas right now. Employers are not required to provide clear written pay statements to minors who are particularly vulnerable to underpayment or miscalculation. I feel like this is a pretty common sense bill, pretty common sense solution. Like Letting said, it's fairly simple. It just ensures that minor workers, people who are particularly at risk and vulnerable,
just get a detailed written breakdown of their pay, just like most adult workers in most places in this country already do. I really don't think this is going to create any kind of excessive paperwork. There's no requirement, like there's no format that someone has to follow. This could be as easy as, there are systems already where it automatically texts people. That's what my last job did. It's very easy for employers and employees equally, and it protects both of these parties as well.
But I'd love if you guys have any questions for me or anything like that. Okay.
Are there any questions from the members of the committee? We're on 585.
Okay. Thank you for your testimony and being here tonight. We do have some folks here for the bill. Is that correct? Tyler and Leela.
Is that correct? Tyler is actually, he had it over, so it's just Leela. I will. That makes sense.
I do have his, he wrote it out, but... Okay, just when you come to the table, then you can... Sorry, I'm
Speaker 214
59:26
sorry. That's okay. Tyler's actually, he had to go to work at four. He was here earlier. Okay. I do have his written testimony if you want me to
read it, but I don't know if y'all do that or
Leela Chisholm
Unverified
59:36
not. No, it's fine. Just state your name for the record. My name is Leela Chisholm. I need to say beforehand, I'm here not representing my employer, but as an individual, but I will have to reference my employment because it is part of my testimony that goes with this. Sure. So I want to thank you all for staying over with the tornado.
My name is Leela Chisholm. I serve as the assistant payroll manager for the city
of Little Rock. I'm so sorry. One moment. Senator Payton.
Senator John Payton
Unverified
59:58
Thank you. I'll just go ahead and point in order. We hear her testimony, but she really can't read somebody else's testimony, right? Right. We're just going
Speaker 223
1:00:06
to have to respond. I have his if it was able, but I know that that's probably not. Thanks. It's
Leela Chisholm
Unverified
1:00:13
okay. You're fine. Go right ahead. Again, I'm Leela Chisholm. I am the assistant payroll manager for the city of Little Rock.
I've worked in finance my entire career, with payroll being a heavy part of my responsibility, ensuring thousands of workers get paid correctly and on time. Today I'm here to urge you to support SB 585, which will guarantee that minor workers receive pay stubs. Every year the City of Little Rock hires over 300 young people in our summer internship program and as part of that they receive pay stubs and training on how to read them, learning how to track their hours, understand deductions, and manage their earnings. For many, this is their very first paycheck, and this education sets them up for financial
responsibility in the future. Payroll isn't always simple. At the city, we run payroll every two weeks, which is 26 times a year, but mistakes happen. Last year alone, we had to process over 40 extra payrolls, which are outside of our regular schedule because time entries were entered incorrectly by the departments. Almost every time, it's a worker that catches this mistake after reviewing their pay stub. Without that sub, they wouldn't know that they were being underpaid in most instances. But this isn't just about making sure workers get what they earn. Pay subs also protect employers. The City of Little Rock employs over 2,500 employees, and my division processes hundreds
of payroll changes every cycle. We've seen cases where workers claim months later that they've signed up for deductions and demand refunds, sometimes for hundreds and even thousands of dollars. When workers receive a pay sub each pay period, they have a clear and consistent record of their earnings and deductions. This not only helps them address the discrepancies promptly, but also protects employers from fraudulent or mistake and refund claims by ensuring transparency and accountability. Minor workers are some of our most vulnerable employees that we have. They may not know that they should be receiving documentation, let alone how to check for mistakes. Guarantee and pay stubs for young
workers. This bill will ensure that they get paid fairly. They'll learn financial literacy and are protected from payroll errors. And I urge that y'all will support this bill because it's a simple step that will make a very big difference for them. And I thank you for
your time and I'll take any questions. Thank you. Are there any questions from
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:02:12
the members of the committee senator payton thank you i thought i heard your resume but
Speaker 214
1:02:17
you must have skipped flight attendant oh i'm sorry when i get nervous i talk kind of fast i'm sorry this is the
Speaker 223
1:02:23
first time i've done this i need to read it again i'll slow it i'll slow it i can try to actually i don't
Leela Chisholm
Unverified
1:02:35
but i can you're fine i just i just really my testimony is just I've worked in payroll, I've done this professionally for well over, I've been doing payroll for well over 15 years, and constantly we see errors, and it's always the workers that catch it, and pay stubs are just, in eight other states, this is only eight states that do not give pay stubs
Speaker 66
1:02:53
out to any workers. Okay, appreciate your testimony, take a job, you did a
great job. Alright, and then we have Kristen Harper.
Speaker 231
1:03:03
Speaking for. thank you. Good evening. Kristen Herper, Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families. Arkansas Advocates has worked for almost 50 years to support public policy that serves all kids and families. That's why we're asking you to vote for SB 585. Giving minors access to their pay steps is an important teaching tool in financial literacy. Teens can learn how to track their gross pay, deductions, learn what those deductions go towards, and it can be an important tool in
learning how to budget. It's also a really important safeguard for these young adults against potential bad actors who might try to take advantage of youth. Receiving a pay stub is a way for them to ensure the hours they worked are correctly recorded and in turn that they were compensated accordingly. Part-time work for teens teaches important lessons, right? Builds confidence, teaches lessons in time management and personal finance, but we always want to make sure that kids are working in safe environments and that means more than just physical safety. Providing
pay stubs, providing youth with their pay stubs protects our kids so I ask you to please vote for SB 585.
Speaker 232
1:04:11
Thank you. Thank you. Are there any questions from the members of
the committee? Seeing none, thank you for your testimony. Senator Letting, you're recognized to close for your bill. Thank you, committee. I would just simply ask for a good
Senator Greg Leding
Unverified
1:04:27
vote and And I move to pass. Okay. Second. Is there
any discussion? All right. All those in favor say aye.
Aye. And opposed? Ayes have it. Congratulations. You've passed your bill. Thank you, committee. Great job on your testimonies. Thank you. Senator Lutty, we should have put a House member on that bill. Yep. Can I get a motion to expunge the vote? Senate Bill 585 passed. Second, all those in favor say aye, and opposed. Aye. We have five.
So you would just like me to verbally amend on a House sponsor? Hold on. So motion to expunge the vote by which Senate Bill 585 has passed. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. I have it. The vote is expunged. Motion to suspend the rules to allow for a verbal amendment of adding a House sponsor. So moved. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. Ayes have it. Motion to add representative. Diana Gonzalez-Werthin.
Okay. Second. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. Ayes have it. Motion to pass Senate Bill 585 as amended. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed? Ayes have it.
Thank you again. Okay. Senator Penzo, 217. You ready? Senate
bill, do you have another Senate bill?
No, we're doing Senate bills. You have 217. That's the one.
Speaker 252
1:06:22
Oh, Senator Hill. You need Senator Hill. oh okay I mean
she has 606 do we want to go to 606 Okay, this is Senate Bill 217.
Okay, so if you'll state your name for the record and your guest, and you may proceed. Clint Penzo, District
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:06:59
31. I'm Greg Pfister with FGA Action. You have an amendment. Is that correct? Okay.
Speaker 259
1:07:08
So let's go ahead and pass that amendment.
I apologize. Okay, do you want to explain the amendment?
Speaker 264
1:08:08
Madam Chair, the amendment tackles one thing, and that is the definitions in the
Speaker 265
1:08:17
bill for candy and soft drinks to allow the governor's office and the department maximum flexibility to negotiate with the United States Department of Agriculture. Okay, gotcha. Okay, so a
motion to adopt the amendment? And second? All those
in favor say aye and opposed.
As have it, amendment is adopted. Please proceed with your presentation of Senate
Speaker 265
1:08:50
Madam Chair. Again, my name is Greg Pfister and I'm with FGA Action. FGA Action is a non-profit, non-partisan advocacy organization that seeks to improve the lives by advocating for public policy based on the principles of free enterprise, individual liberty, and limited accountable government. I'm here today to support Senate Bill 217, a bill that promotes accountability and will help make Arkansans healthier.
The bill is simple, and it's in line with the governor's recent announcement. It really just does two things. One, directs the department to file a waiver with the USDA to clarify that soda and candy will not be included in the food stamp program. And the second thing that it does is it authorizes the department to refile that waiver if for some reason it is not accepted by USDA.
I want to start by saying that this bill is not here to pick a fight with soda or candy or any one item. That's not what this is about. I think we all know that if we get too focused on one example, we're going to miss the bigger picture. The fact is that SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, is funded with taxpayer dollars, and it's meant to help people get the food that they need. The law says the purpose is to help families afford a more nutritious diet and to fight
hunger and malnutrition. That's the mission. And I think that most folks, regardless of where you sit politically, can agree that if that's the purpose, the program should reflect that. So the question isn't, shouldn't someone be able to buy soda? The question is, does the program still line up with what it was created to do? If it does, great. If it doesn't, then let's be honest and make some adjustments. It's not about being punitive in any way. It's about being responsible. And it's about making sure that the program does what it says it's going to do.
We owe that to families who rely on SNAP and to taxpayers who fund it to keep the purpose front and center. Senate Bill 217 accomplishes that in a reasonable way. It's a win for health, for common sense, and for Arkansas. And for those reasons, I ask you to support Senate Bill 217. Thank you again, Madam Chair, and I'm happy to stand for
any questions. Okay. Are there questions for you?
Any questions from members of the committee? see none is there anyone here to
Speaker 59
1:11:42
speak for or against this bill yes you're mr feister is that correct yeah he's for mary
ann mcintyre committee is there a mary ann mcintyre here no
Speaker 59
1:12:05
not here. Okay. Well, for the record, she's for
it. She may not be here, but her name is listed as four, so we'll just read that for the record. Okay. You're
recognized then to close for your bill. I'm closed for the bill and asked
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:12:23
for a good vote. Okay. As amended.
All those in favor say aye. Aye.
And opposed? Aye. So have it. Thank you, committee. Thank you. All right. Bill passes as amended. Okay. Let's see. Senator
Scott, Senator Penso. If somebody can get Senator Tucker.
Senator Letting? Senator Hill, sir. Senator Hill. Senator Hill, do you have a bill? Yes. Okay. Is it a Senate bill? I'm trying to get through Senate
bills. I don't know if it's a Senate bill or not. Okay. I don't have you as a Senate. I'm going through Senate bills. So we'll just go to Senator Tucker is here. There he is.
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
1:13:30
This is 603. Thank you, Madam Chair. With your permission, I'm going to invite former Representative Andy Davis to join me
at the table. Yes. If you'll both come to the table and state your name, you're recognized for Senate Bill 603. Clark Tucker, State Senator, District
Speaker 285
1:13:50
14. Andy Davis from Placid County. Just to be clear, I'm here on my own person tonight, not working. I'm sorry, what? I'm here for myself tonight.
Speaker 286
1:14:01
I'm not working. Okay, thank you. It's a
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
1:14:10
good thing it's 7.30 p.m. Okay, please proceed. I'm going to let Mr. Davis explain why he brought this to my attention because it's an issue that I think needs addressing, given what happened to his family, and
Speaker 287
1:14:24
I'll let him tell the story. Thank you. Thank you, Senator Tucker. Thank
Speaker 285
1:14:28
you, committee. Members, I know you can read the bill. It's pretty simple, pretty straightforward. Just tell you a quick story. Last year, my wife's family was traveling to Fayetteville to attend a Razorback game, and unfortunately, some of them were involved in a very bad car accident on I-49.
Two of the occupants of the vehicle were my niece and nephew. They're six-year-old twins. They were six at the time. Not to belabor all the details, but my six-year-old niece, Emma, was med-flighted to a hospital in Oklahoma. And at the time, they didn't know everything that was wrong with her. But when she got there, they realized she had a tear in her aorta. And that hospital was not able to provide her the surgery she needed.
So after a flurry of phone calls and who do you know and so, you know, back and forth and whatnot and people driving all over the country trying to get to these kids, Children's Hospital in Little Rock actually ended up having to fly from Little Rock to Tulsa to pick her up and bring her back to Little Rock to have surgery. This, of course, all kind of seemed kind of odd. You know, you don't want to make so many trips, so on and so forth.
A couple days after, the surgeons came and spoke to Emma's parents while she was still in the hospital and asked why they went to Tulsa. And she said, I don't know, when the Air EMT left the ground, we thought they were coming to Little Rock, and then they texted them and said, we're going to Tulsa. So the surgeons looked and told us later that the Air EMT did not call the trauma system and asked, where should we go?
So, I don't know that this bill fixes every problem, but it just seems common sense to me that if an accident and an injury is bad enough to call an air EMT, then it's bad enough to use the state trauma system that we have, that we fund, that we set up, that is there for that purpose. I'll be honest with you, I'm told that this is actually in a rule for the trauma system. It's not always followed, apparently.
I think that this would probably just start a bigger conversation. So I asked Senator Tucker to present this bill to start that conversation so we can start to find out what else needs to be done here. And hopefully we don't waste hours on a child's life when they need to get to the right
place at the right time. Thank you. Senator Payton, you're
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:17:19
recognized for questions. Thank you, Madam Chair. I obviously sympathize with your situation
and would not challenge the fact that maybe they did something wrong or made a mistake or could have
made a better decision. But I'm a pilot, and that aircraft has a pilot. and the FAA says that
that pilot is full authority to take that aircraft wherever he needs to take it or she, according to weather conditions and fuel reserves and things like that.
I agree with something needing to be done. Matter of fact, I've had situations in my district with people that are very close to me where the air
ambulance did not act in what I would say was the right
way, you know. But I don't think that the trauma center has air traffic controllers or pilots on staff to take into consideration all the things that have to be taken into consideration
before you lift off the ground and strike a coordinates in a certain direction. And in a trauma situation where that pilot's trying to get in and out of maybe some tight locations that aren't even airports, we're going to have to make allowance in this bill with some language that recognizes the fact that maybe the trauma center can make a recommendation, but the pilot's authority
to keep the aircraft safe involves more than just the injured person. There's a medical team on board, usually two or three people plus a pilot, maybe a co-pilot. There's a lot of lives at stake when he lifts off the ground or she. And we can't allow unqualified personnel at a trialman center to demand that that aircraft go to a certain destination. So I think we have to consider language for this bill that will take into consideration
Speaker 285
1:19:34
those problems. Senator Payton, the only rebuttal I would have to that, obviously there are physical constraints within flying that would have to be considered, but I would just reiterate this is already in rule, so I would assume that those things have been thought out and considered when the rules were written. This just adds the weight of law to the existing rule. I appreciate that. I
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:19:58
just don't think they were. Just like this bill, those things weren't weighed out or considered when it was drafted. Senator, if I may respond,
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
1:20:09
and if the language is ambiguous, then maybe it does need an amendment, but the way I read the language in the bill is the only thing that the air ambulance has to do is contact the trauma system. They don't have to do what they say. They shall contact. For direction. For direction, but...
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:20:29
And it doesn't say the Air Ambulance Service. It says the Air Ambulance. Yeah. That's right. On the best destination.
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
1:20:40
I don't read that as saying they have to go where the Arkansas trauma system says they go.
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:20:44
Well, I think it'd be prudent to clarify that in language of
Speaker 291
1:20:48
it, if we're going to put it in code.
Appreciate it. Any other questions from members of
the committee? Seeing no other questions, is there anyone here to speak for or against the bill, Senate Bill 603? Seeing none, you're recognized to close for your bill.
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
1:21:10
Madam Chair, admittedly, I don't have a lot of experience in this committee. this session. I don't know where y'all are at on verbal amendments, but if you're open to it, if you're not open to it, I respect it. That's the decision of the committee and the chair. But if you're open to it, I'd like to make a suggestion. What's your
suggestion? And then I'll tell you if our committee is okay with it or not. I'll make a verbal
amendment to add a house member because you need a house member.
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
1:21:41
I do need a House member. I've been in communication with a House member about it, but I don't feel comfortable
adding that person just yet. So, anyway. I'll tell you what. Why don't we pull it down? Why don't you work to get an amendment? I know that Ms. Beal, bless her heart, is watching us, and she's very good at getting amendments for us, but why don't you work
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:22:10
on that, Senator Payton? Well, I might have a suggestion
that one word could possibly change this.
Go ahead. On line 26, the last word where it says direction, if they could live
with saying suggestion. I was going to say suggested direction. Would that be said? That's what I'm saying. Yeah. I think that basically... Or
recommendation, Mr. D. Recommendation. Yeah, I think that basically says it's not mandatory. So,
change the word direction to recommendation. Yes, ma'am. I think, actually.
Yes, ma'am. Okay. So, if our members are okay with that, I'll take a motion to suspend the rules to allow to suspend the rules. Motion. Motion. Second. I'll let some favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. Ayes have it. We will now do a verbal amendment, which will add Representative Lee Johnson, is that okay, as the House member, because he knows about this.
He does know about this, yes. And on line 26, we will strike the word direction, striking the word direction and replacing it with recommendation. that is the verbal amendment. Okay,
so moved by Senator Payton. Second. Senator Ludding. All those in favor of this amendment say aye. Aye. And opposed. Ayes have it. Amendment is adopted. Senate Bill 603 as amended. Is there a motion? Motion. Motion and a second. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye.
And opposed, ayes have it. Senate Bill 603, as amended, passes. Thank you.
Speaker 301
1:24:06
Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Thank you, members. Thank you
very much. And I hope that you will break
Speaker 281
1:24:17
the news to Representative Johnson. I think we have
Senator... didn't I see somebody walk into the room
Luddy Penzo did you have a bill well
Speaker 304
1:24:37
I know you do but I think Senator Davis is
going to wait on her bill yes what I mean I've got US589 591 474 306 which one
you want to do I'm sorry 262 and he has an amendment
Speaker 306
1:25:25
okay 311 we did oh that's right yeah i thought we'd
done that i apologize i thought y'all did that while i was
out of the committee senate bill 311 okay
have you signed has he signed it okay he signed it All right, we'll pass that out.
Okay, we're back to Senate Bill 311. Is that correct? That's correct. Yeah,
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:26:00
the amendment came over about the time we shut her down. So... Okay,
if you'll just explain the amendment for me.
Speaker 314
1:26:27
This is Red Hatcher, an attorney, lobbyist. The amendment includes language that we worked on with UAMS, Children's Hospital, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and the Attorney General's office. It makes everything prospective. It takes care of the situation that Senator Payton contemplated earlier as far as the original bill called for ripping out the machines now and replacing them and having the state pay for that.
And so now the amendment just makes clear that moving forward, any new machines that are bought would be not bought from a hostile nation or put together in a hostile nation. that they would be bought from a company that, you know, puts those together either here in America or from one of our allies or anywhere not a hostile nation. And so, again, the gist of the amendment is to make it perspective. We are also working with the Department of Health on an amendment, which we're going to introduce on the House side.
We just got that amendment in the last 24 hours, so we've agreed to work that in on the House side. really just has to do with the reporting. There's some reporting that would be done to the Department of Health, but they didn't, and I'm summarizing here, they didn't feel like they would be able to handle those reports, and so we're going to work with them on getting that amendment on the House side. But as far as we know, these amendments have taken care of everybody's concerns, and there's
no opposition. Okay, any chance we can get that amendment over
here on the Senate side, I actually think it would be
Speaker 314
1:28:12
faster for Senator Penzo. We'll certainly get it sent over to the magnificent Jessica Biel, certainly. If that would make the chair happy. Well, I think it actually might make
things quicker for you. Instead of having to come back. And we are,
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:28:27
did we decide we're going to meet Friday morning? Yes. Okay. So you have time.
So we're happy to do it. Thank you. Would that be okay?
I think you're right. I would just put it all in one amendment, too. Yes, it'll save us the step
coming back. So, yeah. Thank you very much. Okay. Yeah. We'll
have a short, we'll probably have a short meeting Friday morning. And so we'll just put that 3-11. You'll just put that on 3-11 agenda for Friday morning. Okay. Senator Penzo, did you have
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:29:07
262? Yeah, I've got somebody that was in town for 262.
How are you doing? Come on up. If
you would, please. And you have an amendment for 262 that we
Speaker 327
1:29:30
need to adopt, right? Yes. Okay. You want to go ahead and just explain the amendment? Madam Chair and the members of the committee, thanks for letting me speak to you today. I'm Bill McCrary. I'm CEO of Pain Treatment Centers of America. This bill 262 would add a clause to the existing corporate practice of medicine statute clarifying that physicians with an active license in good standing may continue management, ownership, and control of the organizations they own after they retire.
Speaker 328
1:29:53
Provided that their license is in good standing and their license has not been suspended or revoked and they are not subject to
disciplinary action. Okay. Is there a motion to adopt the amendment? No, ma'am. And second? All those in favor say
aye. And opposed, ayes have it. Amendment is adopted, Senate Bill 262, as amended. And you may proceed. I think you explained the bill, but it's fine. Okay.
Speaker 327
1:30:24
So basically, the reasons to support this bill, it encourages physicians to continue to invest in their medical organization and grow in Arkansas communities, even as they approach or surpass their retirement age or goals. It helps to avoid forcing medical organizations to sell or liquidate their practice and penalize physicians who have invested their lives in building those practices. Sell opportunities are not always available, timely, or valued properly. It helps avoid forcing a medical organization's sale or liquidation to penalize rural communities
through a disruption of health care in their communities. The medical board would still continue to regulate the organization, but the retiring physician is no longer required to have to hold an active medical license. And lastly, this change would only apply to physicians in good standing when they retire. Thank you. Are there
Speaker 333
1:31:19
any questions from the members of the
committee? I'm seeing none. Is there anyone here to speak for or against this bill?
Do you want to oppose? Okay. Is there anybody here to speak for or against the bill? You're speaking against the bill? Okay. If you'll recognize.
Senator Fredrick J. Love
Unverified
1:31:51
Okay. Senator Love, you're recognized. Okay. So are you saying an active physician cannot? I guess I heard your explanation of the bill.
Are you saying if you're not an active physician, you cannot? If
Speaker 327
1:32:05
you, as an active physician, retire and give up your license, that you cannot continue to own and manage and operate your practice, as the bill is currently written. You cannot. Okay. And we would ask that a retired, retiring physician in good standing be able to continue to operate their practice. Is there a good reason why? Well, I mean, in our case, for example, our owner has already scaled back his medical practice,
his time as a physician to help run the business. And he foresees a time in the future where he wants to retire as a physician, but not as a business owner and manager. Thank you. All right. Thank you. Any other questions? Okay. All right.
Thank you. And you're here to speak against. Okay.
If you'll come to the end of the table and state your name for the record, please. Thank you, Madam Chair, members of the committee.
Speaker 347
1:33:07
I'm Scott Smith with Arkansas Medical Society. I apologize for not signing in. I didn't think this was coming up tonight because I thought there was going to be a breakfast discussion about this bill tomorrow morning between a representative and a physician. And so I wasn't quite ready for this, but I can... And I've not even seen the amendatory language, but I will say that before the amend was given, like I said, not seen it, our concern is that we feel like a physician who's still having influence
in a medical practice, a medical corporation, needs to maintain their license because there's an accountability issue that if they don't have their license still, that we're concerned about how do you discipline somebody who is over other physicians in a medical practice and possibly exerting influence. And so our request would be just to simply keep up and pay for the license, which is not that expensive nowadays.
Speaker 171
1:34:13
That's our request. Okay. Have you seen the amendment? I have not. Can you read the
Speaker 351
1:34:26
amendment right now, please? Okay, so license was in good standing, but not continuing to have
Speaker 347
1:34:34
a license? Correct. Is that correct? Correct. Okay. So our request would be just to pay the extra $25, $50 a year for the license. You're
saying just to maintain a license in good standing?
Speaker 313
1:34:46
Yes. That would be our request. I got you.
Okay. Senator, and understanding that if it's a license in good standing, the requirement is for continuing education, and basically that's about it.
Speaker 327
1:35:00
20 hours a year, I believe. Is that what it is? Continuing education and fees and, I guess, liability, malpractice insurance as well. That's not part of the licensing.
Speaker 354
1:35:10
Licensing doesn't require... I think it's $25 a year or something like that.
I don't think maintaining a medical license requires you to continue to carry malpractice insurance. Right. I don't know the answer to
Speaker 321
1:35:24
that for sure. If you're not practicing,
unless you're an OB-GYN, and then you have to have tail coverage. Correct. Representative Payton, you have a question? Yes. Okay.
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:35:47
There. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair.
I mean, the way you're saying that is just $25 a year. I mean, so
how's that protecting anybody? How's that causing their practice to be
Speaker 351
1:36:03
better for the customers? To maintain the license is to maintain
Speaker 347
1:36:08
having the medical board having authority over that license and the ability to discipline a person who maintains that license. But
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:36:16
wouldn't they have that authority and that opportunity to discipline anybody working in that clinic as a doctor?
Speaker 347
1:36:24
Well, anybody working in the clinic, yes, sir. But if you have a CEO who's retired who doesn't have a medical license, who still sort of could possibly be calling the shots or influencing medical practice, then our position is that we feel like that particular individual should
Speaker 301
1:36:44
maintain licensure to be under the medical board. So at the big hospitals and stuff like that, are all those board members required to maintain a license? I think it's a different situation because you're talking about a medical corporation, is my understanding.
And hospitals aren't medical corporations. So if the doctor wants to retire, he could just incorporate?
Speaker 359
1:37:10
One exception to the corporate practice of medicine rule is become a non-profit organization. You'll have
to hit your mic. I have to
Speaker 327
1:37:19
apologize. Sorry. One exception to the corporate practice of medicine rule is the organization could become a non-profit organization, but that has a whole different set of rules and guidelines
that we don't necessarily want to follow. So that's how many of the hospitals
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:37:39
do it. Okay, thank you. I just, I thought the bill made perfect sense that somebody should
be able to retire and still run their business. It doesn't make any sense to me that we just want them
Speaker 327
1:37:51
to pay their $25 a year. But anyway, thank you. And we're totally in support of the medical board still having the opportunity to regulate the organization and all the providers within it. We just, our owner would like to be able to retire and still be part of the management process and ownership of the practice.
Senator Ricky Hill
Unverified
1:38:23
Senator Hill, you're recognized for a question. Okay, I want to back up to where Senator Payton was just a while ago. So as far as
being a manager, someone's calling the shots, that happens every day in any business. In a license, saying you must maintain your license to be a physician, how does that keep him from running the business? From running the business, you know, whether he's calling 25% of the shots, 50% of the shots, or all the shots, he's still not seeing the patients. He's making the business decisions. That's totally different than seeing a patient.
Speaker 301
1:38:57
Yes, I understand. I think it's a medical corporation providing care to patients. And so anytime you have that, we believe that the medical board should have authority for that
Speaker 347
1:39:07
kind of practice and that kind of business. And that's really what we're talking about. So
Senator Ricky Hill
Unverified
1:39:13
we're basically simply saying because it's always been that way. As Senator Payton accused me of earlier today. I guess it has always been that way.
Speaker 347
1:39:29
I don't know how many other states allow this kind of thing. I have no idea, but the idea of just maintaining a license to us does not seem to be an unreasonable request
Speaker 301
1:39:42
when you're still having interactions with and influence over physicians and medical practices that impact patients. Thank you, sir. Thank you. Thank you. Any
other questions from members of the committee? All right. Thank you so much for your
testimony. All right. Senator Penzo, you're recognized to close for your bill as amended.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:40:16
Yeah, like Senator Hill said, I mean, this is just managing, and Peyton said, it's just managing a business. The medical board still has control over everything that happens within the clinic. So I would just ask everybody for a good vote on this. I'll make a motion to pass as amended.
Okay. Second. Is there any discussion? All right. All those in favor say aye. Aye.
And opposed? No. I have to have five votes here, call the roll.
Speaker 373
1:41:16
Senator Flippo? Senator Flippo? Senator Hill? Yes. Senator Hill? Yes. Senator Ladin? Yes. Senator Letting? Yes. Senator Penzo? Yes. Senator Penzo? Yes. Senator Payton? Yes. Senator Payton? Yes. Senator Love? No. Senator Love? No. Senator Wallace? Senator Wallace?
All right. It has four votes right now. Bill fails. And so we will, you can run it again when you get your fifth vote in the
room. Thank you. Okay. Moving on to Senator Letting.
No, it's fine. I mean, let me just go to Representative Brown. I mean,
are there any other Senate bills right now that need to be run that's other than a Senate or Penzo bill, unless you want to run a different bill right
now? Okay. Why don't we do that? Do another one. Okay.
Hold on just a second. I just need to check to make sure we can do that.
Okay, so members, we can do this two ways. You can expunge the vote by which it
it again. Motion to expunge the vote by which it failed. Okay, all those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. Ayes have it. Motion to pass 262 as amended by Senator Penso, second by Senator Hill.
All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed.
Ayes have it. Clearly you have your
five votes now. Okay. Thank you. You got
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:45:03
to set the 121. Yes, Senate Bill 121. Okay. Thank you, committee, Madam Chair. This is an automatic occupational licensure for physician's assistance.
If you remember earlier in the session, we passed a compact for physician's assistance. That allows PAs to be portable, to come to the state and leave the state. This, to amend the automatic occupational license would allow PAs that practice in other states that have a license to come to Arkansas and work, provision here that it won't step on anything
that has to do with the existing compacts. So all it does is allow more health care providers to come work in Arkansas. And since we have shortages in
a lot of areas, this is just another way to bring PAs to Arkansas. And I'd like to make a verbal amendment to this to add Representative Long.
Okay, one moment. Does this
to amend the automatic? So we've already passed the automatic occupational licensure for out-of-state licensure. So your amendment
is just? All I want to do is add house
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:46:38
sponsor with the amendment. No, no, no. I
know, but your bill is just to add physician assistants.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:46:47
Is that right? Yeah, just to add PAs to that automatic occupational licensure.
Okay, I have a question on the bill before we do the verbal amendment to
add the House sponsor, if that's okay. Yeah, what's your question? So, but we still maintain licensing over the
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:47:08
PAs, is that correct? That is correct because, yeah, they're not using their out-of-state license. They have to come to Arkansas, and it's already in code that for these occupational licenses that they have to, they may or may not have to take a test, but that's at the discretion of the licensing entity whether they want them to take it or not.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:47:37
say that one more time? Yeah, I said it's already in statute that if the licensing entity wants to make them take a state exam, they can, but they don't have to. I gotcha. Yeah, so they
will be licensed in Arkansas. And we
have a state presence in case they have disciplinary actions or whatever. that all is handled here, and we've done all of our due diligence on adding the language
to make sure that anything changes to the license or scope has to go through ALC or whatever, right? Well, yeah,
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:48:11
I mean, it has nothing to do with... It has nothing to do with that, but...
Yeah, no, this is just, let's say I'm a PA in Missouri, I move to Arkansas, I can apply to get an Arkansas license. They need to be, yeah, somebody that moves here, though, not somebody that's still in Missouri and wants to get a
license in Arkansas. Okay. Are there questions? Senator Payton has a question. Thank
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:48:33
you. Thank you, Madam Chair. I've got some concerns, and I don't know how to really ask the question
other than, I mean, usually reciprocity means that Arkansas has to deal with another state. Our people can go there and practice, and they can come here and practice. And this is just saying that if they're licensed in another state, the door is open, regardless of whether we get to go there. We've already passed the compact.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:48:59
Okay. So there's a set of states out there that are in the compact and I don't. But this would include states that are not, wouldn't it?
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:49:08
Yes. Okay. So my next question is, do all states have pretty much uniform training requirements or could we be
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:49:17
that? That's what, okay. This is different. This, this
allows the licensing entity so that whoever licenses the PAs is going to evaluate that and if it's close enough they might not make them take an exam to show proficiency and if so I mean they can they can make them take a test to prove their proficiency in as a physician assistant. Well I guess I'd need
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:49:48
to see more code than in the bill
So it's not compelling the state of Arkansas to grant a license solely based on the fact that they
have a license in good standing in another state? It's given them the ability to provide
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:50:05
a license if they can pass an exam. If they meet other criteria. So not training, but pass an exam. Well, it's up to the licensing board if they want to give it to them. Okay. all right thanks okay are
there any other questions from the members of the committee
601 okay see no other questions is there
anyone here sorry we've got a really long list hold on No, I don't have anybody. Okay. I'll entertain a verbal amendment to add, let's vote to suspend the
rules. Motion to suspend the rules, so moved, and second.
Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed. As have it, rules are suspended. Motion to amend Senate Bill 121 to add Representative Long as a House sponsor, So moved by Senator Love, second by Senator Penzo. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed, ayes have it. An amendment is adopted. Motion do pass. Senate Bill 121 as amended by Senator Penzo, second by Senator Filippo.
All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed, ayes have it. Congratulations. Senate Bill 121 as amended is passed. Thank you,
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:51:40
Madam Chair. I've got Senate Bill 122. Okay, let
me go to Senator Hester, and I'll come back to you. Okay. Senator Hester. Senator Hester, you're up. You're Senate Bill 601.
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
1:52:09
Thank you, Chairman Irvin. Members, Senate Bill 601 has to do
with international medical graduates. This allows a process for somebody that is a licensed doctor with a good standing in another country that's been practicing in the last four years has the opportunity to come and practice in the state of Arkansas in what I'm going to say is a hospital environment for two years with the opportunity to, you know, continue operating, you know,
providing those services in the state of Arkansas. We all understand that there's a significant need. Somebody already presented
Speaker 270
1:52:52
a bill similar to this? Well, this is assistance in
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
1:53:02
other states. Okay. Okay. Oh, okay. Okay. Sorry. But that's what this does. You know, you can look through there and see all the requirements to make sure that it is, you know, that they're good operators.
And here's what it boils down to. They can only operate in a hospital-type environment. Well, you know, look, in a health care provider, means a health care professional, health care facility, an entity licensed or certified to provide health care services in the state. So they can't go practice on their own. They've got to go practice with the supervision around them for up to a two-year period.
Okay, what happens after the two-year period?
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
1:53:46
Well, after the two-year period, I believe their license is no longer provisional. So if they've been doing a good job, there's been no complaints, the people that supervise them all as well, then I think they have the right to just get a license in the state of Arkansas. Okay,
so then they would then apply for a license under the Arkansas State Medical Board, and that takes over. That's right,
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
1:54:10
and they could go work anywhere in the state. Right now, this is saying they've got to work in an underserved community.
Yeah. Okay. Look, I will tell you, I had a constituent bring this to me that's passionate about this issue because they lost a child in rural Arkansas. I don't know the exact circumstances, but I think that in the situation there were not enough doctors available to be attentive to all that were needed, and they lost a child. They moved to Northwest Arkansas so they would never be in the position again where they would lose a family member because there weren't enough physicians available.
And they became passionate about this issue. And if there becomes questions or this is a problem, you know, I'll defer to next week and I will have them come and talk more intelligently about
this issue. Good. I just want to make sure that there's language that we
have currently in statute for them to be able to just go straight to medical, state medical board, and then be licensed under them. So that, because I, does that make sense? That makes sense, yes. Okay, is there somebody from the health department that could give me that information here tonight?
Anyone? Okay. Mr. Gilmore, do you mind? I know the state medical board, but it falls under the Department of Health. If you don't mind, just come into the table. I just need to make sure, because I would
want language in there if we needed it, right, to do exactly that. Senator, I think
Speaker 355
1:55:47
they've been working on this bill today. I think you've got
Matt Gilmore
Unverified
1:55:51
some things you're working through. As far as the existing language, I think the thought was that they would get the two years
and then they would apply through the medical board for an unlimited license, but that was a conversation I had earlier with Representative Johnson. I think they're moving in the right direction, but that's all I can say at the moment. Okay. All right.
Well, if you need to continue to do work on it, that's fine. We're working through it. Okay, cool.
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
1:56:16
Senator, and I would make a committee, if this committee, without this bill out of committee, I would not run it until you told, I would not run it on the floor until you said I got my questions answered. Okay. And if you don't, like, y'all hear me say that I will not move forward
unless you're comfortable on the floor, but just for logistical purposes, if the committee was okay with that.
Yeah, I just, I am fine with the bill. I like the intent behind it and everything.
I just want to make sure that we have that pathway very clearly defined in statute that they would move from this licensure into Arkansas State Medical Board licensure. Does that make sense? And so if y'all can find that information out for me at the Department of Health, and then if we need to add language in here, I think that would be appropriate if you're okay with that.
But I mean, I'm fine with moving on the bill as it is. And then if we need to do anything on the floor, that's fine too. That's where I'm at. I just think that's the
Senator John Payton
Unverified
1:57:18
right thing to do. Senator Payton. Thank you, Madam Chair. I'm just curious, do they license naturopathic doctors
Speaker 423
1:57:26
in foreign countries? Hey, I was form on our floor. Thank you. Any other questions from members
of the committee? Thank you. Seeing none. Anyone here to speak for or
Speaker 65
1:57:39
against this bill? I don't think so. Okay. All right. You're recognized,
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
1:57:44
closed for your bill. I think, you know, we all have a lot of these standing problems. This is a solution to, or part of a solution to a big problem that we have, which is the need for more physicians. And with that, I'd appreciate a good vote. Okay.
Thank you. Pleasure of the committee. What's the pleasure of the committee? Motion
to pass. Motion to pass. Is there a second?
is there a second all those in favor say aye and opposed thank you and thank you for
working with me if you don't mind just on that
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:58:36
language thanks 122 Senate Bill 122 is the Congolese naturopathic position bill.
Okay. No, it's too late for
me to even get a joke at this point. I
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:58:53
apologize. So Senate Bill 122 is another automatic occupational licensure bill, which is just for medical doctors. So it's the same thing I just explained for the physician's assistants, just for doctors. Okay, so this
is just automatic from somebody who's moving from out of state.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
1:59:21
I can't find the bill. Is that correct? Yeah. I mean, like I said, for the last one, it's someone that holds an out-of-state license in good standing, moves to Arkansas to reside here. They can apply for a medical license, and the medical board can decide if they want them to take an exam, or if it's a state that has similar standards, they can just give them a license.
but it's up to the medical board how they want to handle it.
Does anybody from the medical society have a position on this? Okay,
let me just ask questions about... Okay, I'm sorry, I could not get it in my packet. But would the Arkansas State Medical Board be able to deny
license under this act if they found issues with that person in a different state?
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:00:24
My understanding is yes. I mean, it's up to the board whether or not it just allows for it to happen. But, yeah, I mean, there's nothing that mandates a license. I mean, they can still, you know, if you don't pass the
test or whatever hurdles they set in
the way, they could deny the license. Okay. That's just my only concern with an automatic occupational licensure for out-of-state licensure act.
It's just the disciplinary issues and
making sure that Arkansas can say no if they find some
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:01:07
pretty egregious issues. They can still revoke an individual's license. They'd still retain that ability. I mean, there's several professions under the occupational license section, a statute that allows these automatic licenses from other states. You know, if somebody wants to move here and get a license,
we want them to move here and work.
Well, I agree with them, but I mean, the state of Arkansas has very specific issues as it relates to licensing that may
be very, very different from California and New York or whatever. And I just don't like to secede our authority to be
able to maintain a license and, like, oversight over an individual, particularly when they're
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:01:52
treating patients. I 100% agree with you. And this is not a compact that we've already passed the compact, like I said, that allows people to come from other states. This still gives the board the authority to license.
They don't, it doesn't, you don't have to give every doctor a license that comes up. They still have the authority to screen the candidates and make sure they adhere to Arkansas. I mean, it's an Arkansas license, so they can still regulate the license. There's nothing that would prevent them from
that. Okay. Department of Health, I just need to make sure. Are you here? Okay. I just want clarity on that for sure.
got more. I'm sorry. Senate Bill 122, if you'll come to
the end of the table, Mr. Gilmore. I guess the word automatic is throwing me off. Senate Bill 122 is what I'm talking about. And the word automatic is throwing me off because I don't want to... I guess that's the word that's throwing me off. So, I need to understand, does this bill create an automatic approval of a license without regard to any kind of disciplinary actions, criminal background check, et cetera, et cetera, that the state medical board would be able to say yes or no to that license?
And it's the word automatic that I'm trying to understand. So they will have
Matt Gilmore
Unverified
2:03:40
to go through a background check. State your
name for the record. I apologize.
Matt Gilmore
Unverified
2:03:45
Matt Gilmore-Porten Health. Okay. They'll have to go through a background check. Okay. They'll have to be generally, and I think it's in the, you go back to Title 17, I think that's where this language is. It's got all the parameters in there that fall under automatic licensure.
But they will have to be in good standing. I mean, they'll have to
be licensed somewhere else. Okay. Okay. So that automatic doesn't necessarily apply. It's in the title. The
Matt Gilmore
Unverified
2:04:13
word automatic is a faster process. I mean, it's basically if they're licensed somewhere else, they come here, apply, get a background check, they're in good standing, then they get a license. I got you. It's just a, I think it's a faster process. Okay. It's kind of the military licensure that y'all have passed back in the day. Okay. Thank you.
That is so very, okay. That's what I was thinking. I just wanted to make sure. Thank you so much. Okay. Any other questions from members of the committee? All right. Seeing none, do I
hear a motion to suspend the rules to add a House member as a sponsor? Motion to suspend the rules. Second, all those in favor say aye. And opposed, I have it. Motion to amend the Senate Bill 122 to add representative. Long. Long. It's like bingo tonight. As a House member, so moved.
Second, all those in favor say aye. Okay, amendment is adopted. Now, Senate Bill 122 as amended. Motion to pass
as amended second. All those in favor say aye. Aye. And opposed? Ayes have
it. Senate Bill 122 passes as amended.
Okay, Senator Scott is not here. Senator Dave, Senator Scott is here. I'm so sorry. Senate Bill, you have a Senate Bill 225. Your bill is Senate Bill 225. yes it's a it's to require the Arkansas Medicaid program to provide category for beneficiaries with sickle cell disease okay so
I can place that bill on
deferred permanently Senate bill 225 needs to be
placed on deferred permanently. That's okay. Senator Penzo. Okay. Senator Ludding, you're not going
Speaker 201
2:06:30
to run 587? 587? Oh, okay. Sorry. Penzo.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:06:44
I've got Senate Bill 474. Thank
you. Senator Penso, you're recognized. Okay. Senate Bill 474 is a local control bill that allows the water system board to vote whether or not they want to have fluoride in their water system.
okay sorry about that what bill are we on again senate bill 474
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:07:29
474 okay and like i said pretty much is it as i just said the board of a public water system may elect
to prohibit fluoridation of the water it supplies that's pretty much all the bill does because it allows the board of the water system to vote for or against.
The other bill I ran was to eliminate the mandate. This does not, but it gives local control to the actual water district board to decide whether or not they want to
fluoridate the water. Do you know
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:07:59
how that board is made up? Every board in the state could be made up differently. There's usually members to the board. Are they appointed, elected? I'm not really sure. It's hard to say.
They're probably, I don't know. Every water district could be set up
differently. Okay. All right. Any questions other than mine? Okay. Anyone here to speak? I'm sorry. You had
a question? 474. any additional questions anyone here to speak for or against this bill
i don't see any all right you are then
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:08:58
closed for your bill yep let me
make a motion to pass Okay. There's discussion. Senator Wallace, you're recognized for
discussion. Wait, you need your microphone, please. Members, I
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
2:09:19
will have to oppose this bill. Once again, it's based on my knowledge of my previous life,
and what I've seen our folks go through with a lack of fluoride. I've worked closely with a lot of these water districts. Most of them are not elected by the numbers you would see elected in a municipal election or a county election. It might be just a handful of people that elect the board. So it's possible in some cases you could have five to ten people deciding the floor right issue for a group of three or four hundred of their customers.
So I will be voting against this bill. Thank you. I have a discussion. Senator
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:10:19
Penza, you're recognized for discussion on the motion. Thank you, Madam Chair. The board
members represent the people in their water district. I mean, that's what they're there for. There's already boards in the state, water districts in the state that don't fluoridate their water.
And they've made that decision based on feedback from their constituents. I believe this is probably one of the
simplest ways to provide local control to our constituents. Okay. Other discussion from members of the committee? I'm
going to participate in discussion as well.
I'm opposed to the bill based on what Senator Wallace also has stated. I have a very personal story about this. When I moved to Stone County, there was no fluoride in the water. I, as
a mother of young children that were four young kids, we tried to get the boards of these water systems to listen to the majority of the population and the health care professionals that all came and asked for better drinking water for the citizens.
And the reason why is because we got to see these kids up close and personally. And when you see a child who has a mouth full of rotted teeth that are decayed because of cavities, and they have silver caps on every single one of their teeth, it's horrible. It's horrible. And that was the condition that we found when we had very poor water in Stone County.
We tried to get fluoride added to the water at
the time. They wouldn't do it, and they wouldn't listen to anyone. And so I have a problem because your board, I don't know who Alexi's the board. I don't know if they have the ability or mandate to actually have meetings that are public. Because I have no idea when they meet. I don't know where they meet. I don't know if there's any kind of a process for input from citizens.
And so, you know, I have a real problem with them making a decision for an entire community. And then, you know, as I've stated, since we've had the fluoride added into the water on Stone County, we have not seen this with children. It has absolutely improved. And the water in Big Flat, I mean, in 56, was well water with adequate
and appropriate natural levels of fluoride
that the water in Mountain View did not have in the system. And so, you know, those kids, there was a visible difference. And so I just, there are children that are affected by this. They don't have a choice about whether or not they have fluoride or not. And so I am opposed to this bill, and I'm opposed to removing fluoride from the water system.
I think it's an economic development issue as well. So that communities have good drinking water is very important for economic development and growth. Are there any other members that have discussion for this bill? You've had discussion already, Senator Penzo, which I've recognized. Is there any other, Senator Payton? Do you
mind, Senator Willis, if you turn your mic off? Thank you, sorry. Senator Payton, you're recognized. Thank
Senator John Payton
Unverified
2:14:25
you, Madam Chair. These board
members are responsible for delivering clean, safe, healthy water,
maintenance, and upkeep on the systems. And I just, I know some of them personally in my neighborhood, in my area, and I think they take that responsibility seriously. I don't think we should belittle their role and their responsibility for what they do. I mean, they make decisions for the entire water system all the time. That's what their job is as board members. And I think we had a bill that would have allowed the customers of the water system to make that decision, but it was defeated.
So I think it's fine to let the board members make the decision. I'm voting for it. Thank you.
Thank you. Any other members for discussion? Senator Hill, you're recognizing the discussion. Yeah, I
Senator Ricky Hill
Unverified
2:15:14
want to make a comment. I'm going to go right along with Senator Payton. I know a bunch of these gentlemen, men and women, that are all these water companies. And I think we just kind of belittled them just then. I just feel like that they're responsible. They put them on there. And these are some good people. And they're personal friends of mine. My neighbors are on the board of a water company. They're great people. I think they're put in that position.
They're either elected or appointed to it to do a job and be responsible for what they do and take care of the people in their area. And
I think they do a heck of a job at it. Any other discussion for members of the committee? All right. Seeing none, we have a motion. Do pass. There's no amendment. Second, all those in favor say aye. Aye.
And opposed? No. I'm going to say that there's not five votes. Noes have it. Do you want to roll call it?
Speaker 373
2:16:08
We'll roll call it. Senator Flippo? Yes. Senator Flippo? Yes. Senator Hill? Yes. Senator Hill? Yes. Senator Senator Lattin, no. Senator Penzo, yes. Senator Payton, yes. Senator Love, no. Senator
Wallace? No. Senator Wallace? No. Only four votes. He needs five. Bill
fails. Thank you. Committee. Well, that depends on Senator Penzo. Do you have... I mean, I
can do one more and call tonight. Okay. What bill do you have, Senator Penzo? Yeah, because, I
mean, we're meeting Friday, so, I mean, I've got one
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:17:16
more in my hand. I can do the rest of them. Is it kind of fluoride controversial?
This is not fluoride controversial. Okay, can we just move on to, like, which bill
you want to do? Senate Bill 110. Okay. okay senate bill 110
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:18:00
all right senate bill 110 would allow cnas that
work in home settings to expand their scope And it does not apply to CNAs that work in inpatient settings or skilled nursing facilities. And I'm going to tell you why I'm bringing this bill before this committee.
It comes to a personal experience, and I won't go through all the details because you all have heard them before. knows that my sister's on a ventilator, feeding tube, quadriplegic. When they sent her home from the hospital, we did like a 15-minute tutorial on how to manage her ventilator, how to do suction, how to do things like that. I've got a healthcare background, so it's
a little different for me. I did wound care. I did all kinds of stuff in my previous job. I've taught anatomy and physiology for three years. I've got a little different perspective on the human body than my 80-plus-year-old parents who are educated, my elderly aunts and uncles who are educated. So the family has taught how to use the vent. We
each go around the room, suction her. We're sent home, just us, the family.
And that's our training, and that's okay, right? That's the bar that's set by our health care facility for family members today. I can train my sister's dog walker to suction her, to feed her through her PEG-2, and that's a trainable task. It's not rocket science. Like I said, my 80-year-old parents were doing this.
And that's how this works. You leave the facility, and we were so nervous for the first couple weeks.
It was scary. I mean, here's my sister on a bench, she's paralyzed, and we're the ones taking care of her. But we took on that risk. That was our decision, to get her out of the facility because we wanted her home. So we have non-skilled caregivers, CNAs that come in the house.
They're not allowed to touch the peg tube. They're not allowed to touch the vent. They're not allowed to do this. They're not allowed to do that. There's all these things because of this license that prevents them from doing the things that my 80-year-old parents were doing. My dog walker or my sister's dog walker, college girl that's a dog
walker, can do all these things. So what this bill does is
it says that if the person is properly trained and if my sister's comfortable with it or I'm comfortable with it as their POA, why shouldn't they be allowed to do those tasks?
Because we're discharged from the hospital without just a few minutes of training on it. You know, of course, we've got people come out and check on the vent, and over time we've, you know, learned. But that's what training is about. You don't have to have all these courses on how to run the vent. These home units are about this big, and they run themselves. And I just think that our health care system is broken.
There's a lot of things that need to be fixed. and I think this would be you know I ran a bill here the other day and it didn't get passed because my goal is to leave people in their home as long as possible. Now my sister has nurses that stay with her overnight and then we have like the non-skilled or the CNAs that come in during the day but they're not working necessarily under their CNA license or non-skilled health care providers that help out around the house. I just think that if we're allowed to take her home
and we feel comfortable, if I feel comfortable with my dog walker doing the task, then I should be able to feel okay with somebody with a CNA license doing the task. And that's what this bill
asks for. I'd be happy to answer any questions. So you're directing Medicaid, is that correct to recognize this or, I'm sorry, shall authorize
shall authorize CNAs or CNAs who provide in-home services to benefit you to
perform additional care and duties. So this would have... It's instructing them to request a
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:23:32
federal waiver that would allow this. Right. But that's also... Do you
have... Did you get fiscal impact information from Medicaid on it? I don't
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:23:45
see how there could be a fiscal impact
on something that's scope-related. Okay. If anything, in the long run, this would actually probably save money if you could utilize CNAs
instead of RNs. I mean, one of the situations we have with my sister, Just this last weekend, we lost a nurse, won't go into the details on that, but I ended up spending Friday and Saturday night with my sister.
And that's a pretty regular occurrence. And so that's me sitting in front of a monitor in a recliner while she's in the other room sleeping. And I keep an eye on that monitor all night, stay awake all night. I work on stuff, but I'm watching that monitor because that's normally what the nurse does. while she sleeps. Every hour I get up and go check on her, check her, you know, make sure everything's good. And then I go back to the recliner. And so that's, that's a 12 hour shift
that the nurses are usually there doing that.
So. Yeah. I think what I'm asking though is for in-home care, you're talking about personal care,
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:25:08
right? I'm talking about personal care right now. Right. But what I'm saying is, I'm just saying there is a shortage of RNs out there right now. Okay. Okay. And I'm not saying that these folks are going to be spending the night with her. I'm just saying that if there's shifts during the day that can't be covered because
there's not enough nurses out there. I mean, that was part of me expanding the scope radius back in the day for these types of things because there were not RNs. I was using a company in northwest Arkansas and there were not nurses in northwest Arkansas that worked for that company. I went to Mountain Home after we expanded as a legislature that coverage area and the company in Mountain Home had people working for it that lived in northwest Arkansas
and you can't use two providers. I'm just saying there's a health care shortage out there. That's why I'm running a lot of these bills, the automatic licensure for PAs, automatic licensure for doctors. I'm trying to expand scope of all these professions. It's because we don't have coverage for in-home care in this state. And I know this doesn't directly affect that, but it does because there are RN shifts during the day that we can't cover. And so that could be covered by a CNA if this bill passed.
Okay, I'm just trying to understand, is DHS in the room? Can they come to the table and give me some
Speaker 453
2:26:55
information here that I just need to ask
a question about, please? Sorry. Good evening, Elizabeth Pittman, Division of Medical Services. Okay, thank you. So my question is specifically, do we currently pay for in-home services with CNAs?
My understanding is, is this personal care, and do we currently pay for skilled, because CNA is skilled labor, right? So we do pay, I know, for unskilled labor, correct, for
personal care. do we currently also pay for CNAs? Not that I'm aware of for CNAs in
Speaker 454
2:27:30
the home. We have private duty nursing in the home, which covers registered nurses and I believe LPNs. And then we also have personal care, which is direct care worker, which would be the unskilled professional.
They do go through some training, but it is not a certified or licensed profession.
Okay, so this, but this bill is just saying CNAs versus RNs or are we adding CNAs to the personal care world which we do not have right now? I would let you
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:28:10
here. What are you what are you asking? So I'm asking
about we have personal care
right and they utilize unskilled labor
correct currently correct yeah I mean home services yeah most
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:28:27
of them are probably untrained initially I was going to do that population but I didn't figure that would be very popular and this isn't tied to any non-skilled provider or skilled provider out there this is this is just something this is Clint's bill. I was looking at doing this with the non-skilled. I didn't think that would be
very palatable. I know that this is probably not very palatable either, but if there was a CNA that worked for a non-skilled company, they would be allowed to do this. If there was a CNA that worked for a skilled company. They could substitute for an RN. Okay. I don't know, and that kind of would fall under, I mean, whatever the waiver comes back as, I mean, and how it was written. I'm requesting a waiver being requested. So it might be that
the skilled company that can't provide my family with an RN could use a CNA. CNA. Okay. So what Senator Penzo is
stating, that is another question I had. What would this waiver look like
based on the bill? Is there a fiscal impact to that? Is it different? I'm trying to understand exactly what he was talking about and how that process would work with this bill. I would agree. We have not
Speaker 453
2:29:59
determined there to be a fiscal impact. We do
look at this as a scope issue and it would fit
Speaker 454
2:30:05
into what we have as services today so we're not seeing a fiscal impact to that okay um i don't know if it would be a waiver or state plan amendment we would have to work through um all of that and how this individual who doesn't necessarily have the ability to practice on their own as a medical professional would be supervised um so typically our ends have their physician plans that were their plans signed off on by a physician before they go home and go in and perform their duties. And there is a standard of nursing care that they
provide the notes and sort of the instructions for the next shift to another person that can have that same scope of practice. And so we would have to work through any issues like that to be able to do a waiver. Okay, that
helps me answer those questions. Are there other questions from members of the committee? Senator
Senator Fredrick J. Love
Unverified
2:31:06
Love? In the same vein, so is there any other states that actually
Speaker 459
2:31:10
have CNAs? Or do you know? I wouldn't know. I don't know either. We can
Speaker 218
2:31:18
take a look and see what we can find, but I don't know
right now. Okay. All right. Thank you. All right. Any other questions from members of the committee? Okay, seeing none. We have some folks that were here earlier. I'm just going to call their names. They signed up to speak against, which is Rachel Bunch, Executive
Director, AHCA. Margaret Lowe, Arkansas Nurses Association. Is Margaret Lowe still in the
room. Margaret Lowe, she was against, who
was Margaret Lowe with? Sorry. Margaret Love, sorry. Arkansas Nurses Association was against, and Neil Reeves, Arkansas Nurses Association, is Neil Reeves in the room? No, they were against the bills. They were here
earlier. OK, well, they're not here, but for the record,
they signed up to speak against.
All right. Any other questions from members of the committee? Seeing none, you're recognized to close for your bill.
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:32:29
Yeah, I'm close for my bill, and I just ask for a good vote. OK. Motion do
pass by Senator Penzo. Second by Senator Payton. All those in favor say
aye. Aye. And opposed? No. I'm going to say the no's have it. Bill fails. Senator Bill wants, okay. Tell you what, let me go ahead
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
2:32:55
and get a roll call on that, and then we'll know where I stand with everybody,
and then we can have a
Speaker 373
2:33:10
talk, see if we can fix it. All right. Please call the roll. Senator Flippo? No. Senator Flippo? No. Senator Hill? No. Senator Hill, no. Senator Letting? Aye. Senator Letting, yes. Senator Penzo? Yes. Senator Penzo? Yes. Senator Payton? Yes. Senator Payton, yes. Senator Love? No. Senator Love, no. Senator Wallace? No. Senator Wallace, no.
Okay, three yeses. Bill
fails. Thank you. Okay, members, with that then we're adjourned.
Agenda
CALL TO ORDER
SB576 B. Davis TO AMEND THE COVERAGE OF CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORS WITHIN THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM.
SB497 D. Wallace TO REQUIRE THE CREATION OF A POSTER REGARDING VETERANS' BENEFITS AND SERVICES; AND TO REQUIRE CERTAIN EMPLOYERS TO DISPLAY THE POSTER.
SB532 Hester TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "SPECIALTY HOSPITAL" RELATING TO THE ASSESSMENT FEE ON HOSPITALS UNDER THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM.
SB557 M. Johnson TO AMENDS LAW CONCERNING WATER PERMITS AND DISCHARGE OF WASTEWATER; TO AUTHORIZE DENIALS OF APPLICANTS THAT HAVE A HISTORY OF NONCOMPLIANCE; AND TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN DISCHARGE OF WASTEWATER.
SB312 Stone TO REMOVE THE MORATORIUM ON THE CONSTRUCTION OR ADDITION OF ANY ADDITIONAL BEDS WITHIN PSYCHIATRIC RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT FACILITIES.
SB556 M. Johnson TO PROTECT PUBLIC DRINKING WATER SOURCES; AND TO PROHIBIT SURFACE DISCHARGE OF WASTEWATER INTO A WATERSHED.
SB585 G. Leding TO REQUIRE CERTAIN RECORDS BE PROVIDED TO AN EMPLOYEE WHO IS A MINOR.
SB589 C. Penzo TO CREATE THE 340B PROGRAM TRANSPARENCY ACT; AND TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CERTAIN 340B-COVERED ENTITIES.
SB591 C. Penzo TO PROHIBIT RACE-SELECTION ABORTION IN THIS STATE; AND TO CREATE THE RACE DISCRIMINATION BY ABORTION PROHIBITION ACT.
SB474 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING PUBLIC WATER SYSTEMS; AND TO ALLOW THE BOARD OF A PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM TO PROHIBIT FLUORIDATION OF THE WATER IN THE PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM.
SB306 C. Penzo TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO APPLY FOR A HOME- AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES WAIVER FOR THE AGING AND ELDERLY POPULATION IN THIS STATE.
SB311 C. Penzo TO CREATE THE END ORGAN AND GENOMIC HARVESTING ACT; TO PROHIBIT COVERAGE OF CERTAIN HUMAN ORGAN TRANSPLANT OR POST-TRANSPLANT CARE; AND TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN GENETIC SEQUENCERS AND GENETIC ANALYSIS TECHNOLOGIES.
SB2 C. Penzo TO REPEAL THE STATEWIDE FLUORIDATION PROGRAM; AND TO REMOVE THE MANDATE FOR WATER SYSTEMS TO MAINTAIN A FLUORIDE CONTENT.
SB269 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS REGARDING LOCATIONS FOR AND GEOGRAPHIC AREAS OF A HOSPICE AGENCY.
SB262 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE CORPORATE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE DOCTRINE; AND TO AUTHORIZE A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WHO OWNS A MEDICAL CORPORATION TO MAINTAIN OWNERSHIP UPON AN INACTIVE LICENSE OR RETIREMENT.
SB255 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "DRUG" WITHIN THE FOOD, DRUG, AND COSMETIC ACT; AND TO DECLARE AN EMERGENCY.
SB225 J. Scott TO REQUIRE THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM TO PROVIDE A CATEGORY FOR BENEFICIARIES WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE.
SB217 C. Penzo TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO REQUEST A WAIVER TO EXCLUDE CANDY AND SOFT DRINKS FROM ELIGIBLE FOODS UNDER THE SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
SB122 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LICENSURE ACT; TO APPLY THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LICENSURE ACT TO PHYSICIANS.
SB121 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LICENSURE ACT; TO APPLY THE AUTOMATIC OCCUPATIONAL LICENSURE FOR OUT-OF-STATE LICENSURE ACT TO PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS.
SB95 C. Penzo TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS ATHLETIC TRAINERS ACT; AND TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF "ATHLETE" WITHIN THE ARKANSAS ATHLETIC TRAINERS ACT.
SB110 C. Penzo TO AUTHORIZE CERTIFIED NURSE AIDES OR CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANTS WHO PROVIDE IN-HOME SERVICES TO BENEFICIARIES IN THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM TO PERFORM ADDITIONAL CARE AND DUTIES.
SB601 Hester TO CREATE A PATHWAY FOR A GRADUATE OF A FOREIGN MEDICAL SCHOOL TO BE LICENSED IN THIS STATE IF HE OR SHE IS OFFERED FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT AS A PHYSICIAN FROM A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER.
SB603 C. Tucker TO REQUIRE AN AIR AMBULANCE TO CONTACT THE ARKANSAS TRAUMA SYSTEM FOR DIRECTION ON THE BEST DESTINATION TO TRANSPORT A PERSON.
SB606 B. Davis TO AMEND THE USED TIRE RECYCLING AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT; TO CREATE THE TIRE MANAGEMENT AND RECYCLING ACT; TO REPEAL THE USED TIRE RECYCLING FUND; AND TO CREATE THE WASTE TIRE ABATEMENT FUND.
SB587 G. Leding TO CREATE THE PARENTS' PEACE OF MIND ACT; TO ESTABLISH AUTHORIZATION FOR AND USE OF A MONITORING DEVICE IN A LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY; TO PROVIDE FOR WAIVERS; AND TO PROVIDE FOR ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES.
HB1186 Vaught TO CREATE THE PAIN RELIEF PARITY ACT; AND TO REQUIRE PAIN RELIEF PARITY IN THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM.
HB1131 Pilkington TO AUTHORIZE AN ADVANCED PRACTICE REGISTERED NURSE TO DELEGATE CERTAIN TASKS TO MEDICAL ASSISTANTS AND OTHER UNLICENSED STAFF.
HB1171 K. Moore TO MODIFY THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE ACT; AND TO AUTHORIZE AN ABBREVIATED INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT FOR CERTAIN BENEFICIARIES ENROLLED IN A RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATION.
HB1403 Pilkington TO AMEND THE ARKANSAS HEALTH AND OPPORTUNITY FOR ME ACT OF 2021 TO ALLOW NONHOSPITAL ENTITIES TO BE COMMUNITY BRIDGE ORGANIZATIONS.
HB1439 Ladyman TO REMOVE THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES FROM LICENSURE AS A PRIVATE CARE AGENCY.
HB1440 Bentley TO AMEND THE MASSAGE THERAPY ACT; AND TO ESTABLISH REGISTRATION FOR MASSAGE THERAPY ESTABLISHMENTS.
HB1454 Bentley TO AMEND THE LAWS CONCERNING CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORDS CHECKS FOR EMPLOYEES OF SERVICE PROVIDERS; TO ALLOW THIRD-PARTY EMPLOYEE EVALUATION SERVICES TO PERFORM CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORDS CHECKS; AND TO INCLUDE INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS.
HB1456 Rose TO AMEND THE STATE KIDNEY DISEASE COMMISSION TO BE AN ADVISORY COUNCIL TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH.
HB1251 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH THE ARKANSAS ANESTHESIOLOGIST ASSISTANT ACT; AND TO PROVIDE FOR LICENSURE OF ANESTHESIOLOGIST ASSISTANTS.
HB1458 L. Johnson TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "CREDENTIALING INFORMATION" WHEN THE ARKANSAS STATE MEDICAL BOARD IS PROVIDING INFORMATION TO CREDENTIALING ORGANIZATIONS.
HB1537 Ladyman TO REPEAL THE LOCATION ACT FOR COMMUNITY HOMES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES.
HB1428 Steimel TO AMEND THE LAW REGARDING PUBLIC LODGING; AND TO PROVIDE A BED HEIGHT REQUIREMENT FOR MOBILITY ACCESSIBLE ROOMS.
HB1523 Vaught CONCERNING MISSING PERSONS ALERTS; TO CODIFY THE ARKANSAS AMBER ALERT SYSTEM; TO CODIFY THE ARKANSAS SILVER ALERT SYSTEM; AND TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS PURPLE ALERT SYSTEM.
HB1442 Achor TO SET RESTRICTIONS ON PHARMACY CONTRACTING AND CONFLICTS OF INTEREST; AND TO ESTABLISH PHARMACEUTICAL PATIENT FREEDOM OF CHOICE.
HB1471 Wooldridge TO AMEND THE EXPIRATION DATE OF ALL LICENSES OF THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY.
HB1185 L. Johnson TO ADOPT THE DIETITIAN LICENSURE COMPACT IN ARKANSAS.
HB1559 McGrew TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO SEEK A WAIVER TO THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM FOR COVERAGE FOR INPATIENT TREATMENT SERVICES FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS.
HB1429 M. Shepherd TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY WHILE ENSURING QUALITY FOR CERTAIN FACILITIES PERFORMING MAMMOGRAPHY SERVICES; AND TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING THE QUALITY STANDARDS FOR ACCREDITATION OF FACILITIES FOR MAMMOGRAPHY.
HB1285 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH AN EXEMPTION PROGRAM FOR AMBULANCE SERVICE'S OPERATORS FOR CERTAIN HEALTHCARE SERVICES.
HB1576 Lundstrum TO PROHIBIT A SOLID WASTE LANDFILL TO BE PLACED OVER A KARST TOPOGRAPHY.
HB1218 J. Mayberry TO CREATE LICENSURE FOR THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SPECIALISTS; AND TO CREATE THE THERAPEUTIC RECREATION PRACTICE ACT.
HB1682 Puryear TO CREATE THE GOOD NEIGHBOR ACT; AND TO CLARIFY FOOD DONATION LIABILITY AND IMMUNITY.
HB1252 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH THE CERTIFIED COMMUNITY-BASED DOULA CERTIFICATION ACT; AND TO CERTIFY BIRTH AND POSTPARTUM DOULAS IN THIS STATE TO IMPROVE MATERNAL AND INFANT OUTCOMES.
HB1585 L. Johnson TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION FROM LICENSURE AS A HOME HEALTHCARE SERVICE TO AN ENTITY THAT SOLELY PROVIDES THERAPY SERVICES THAT ARE NOT REIMBURSED BY MEDICARE PART A.
HB1712 Joey Carr TO ESTABLISH THE SOCIAL WORK LICENSURE COMPACT IN THIS STATE.
HB1582 McAlindon TO REQUIRE CERTAIN ACTIONS AND ENCOURAGE CERTAIN ACTIONS FOR AN INDIVIDUAL TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR BENEFITS UNDER THE DIVISION OF WORKFORCE SERVICES LAW.
HB1622 Gramlich TO AMEND THE MEDICAID FAIRNESS ACT; TO MODIFY THE DEFINITION OF "ADVERSE DECISION" UNDER THE MEDICAID FAIRNESS ACT; AND TO PROVIDE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE RECONSIDERATION UNDER THE MEDICAID FAIRNESS ACT.
HB1619 Gramlich TO SET ADMINISTRATION FEES UNDER THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM FOR IMMUNIZATIONS AND MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES FOR RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS DISEASE; AND TO PROVIDE CIVIL IMMUNITY.
HB1734 Childress TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING DEATH CERTIFICATES; AND TO CLARIFY THE MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS WHO MAY SIGN A MEDICAL CERTIFICATE OF DEATH AND PRONOUNCE DEATH OF A PATIENT.
HB1758 Gramlich TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING HEARING INSTRUMENT DISPENSERS; AND TO AMEND THE DEFINITION OF "PRACTICE OF DISPENSING HEARING INSTRUMENTS".
HB1241 J. Mayberry TO ENSURE THAT THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM REIMBURSES FOR DENTAL AND ANESTHESIA COSTS FOR HIGH COMPLEXITY ORAL HEALTH CARE.
HB1679 M. Brown TO AMEND THE REVISED ARKANSAS ANATOMICAL GIFT ACT; TO ALLOW CERTAIN CLASSES OF PERSONS TO REVOKE OR AMEND AN ANATOMICAL GIFT UPON THE DEATH OF THE DONOR; AND TO REQUIRE CERTAIN REPORTING OF PROCUREMENT ORGANIZATIONS.
HB1782 Hudson TO PROHIBIT OVER-THE-COUNTER DIET PILLS FROM BEING SOLD, TRANSFERRED, OR OTHERWISE FURNISHED TO A PERSON WHO IS UNDER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE.
HB1543 Underwood TO ESTABLISH THE WORKFORCE EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES ACT OF 2025.
HB1767 L. Johnson TO ABOLISH THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COUNCIL; AND TO CREATE THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
HB1801 K. Moore TO AUTHORIZE AN OUTSOURCING FACILITY OF LEGEND DRUGS AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES THAT COMPOUNDS A PRODUCT TO SELL THE COMPOUNDED PRODUCT TO CERTAIN ENTITIES.
HB1817 L. Johnson TO ESTABLISH ELIJAH'S LAW IN ARKANSAS; AND TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO ESTABLISH A STATEWIDE ANAPHYLAXIS POLICY FOR CHILDCARE FACILITIES.
HB1840 L. Johnson TO AMEND THE MEDICAID PROVIDER-LED ORGANIZED CARE ACT TO ENSURE THAT SEDATION DENTISTRY IS COVERED BY RISK-BASED PROVIDER ORGANIZATIONS.
HB1841 L. Johnson TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS REVENUE INVESTMENT IN VITAL EMS SYSTEMS (ARRIVES) ACT; AND TO CREATE THE ARKANSAS REVENUE INVESTMENT IN VITAL EMS SYSTEMS (ARRIVES) FUND FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES AGENCIES.
HB1004 Pilkington TO REQUIRE MEDICAID COVERAGE FOR POSTPARTUM MOTHERS FOR ONE YEAR AFTER GIVING BIRTH.
HB1187 Vaught TO AUTHORIZE A LICENSURE BY ENDORSEMENT FOR MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS.
HB1677 Bentley TO AUTHORIZE ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE TREATMENT PROGRAMS TO MAINTAIN EMERGENCY MEDICATION KITS.
HB1751 Underwood TO REQUIRE AN APPLICANT FOR TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES PROGRAM BENEFITS TO ENGAGE IN JOB SEARCH ACTIVITIES WHILE THE APPLICATION IS BEING PROCESSED.
HB1784 Wardlaw TO MODIFY THE INFORMAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCESS FOR LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES.
ADJOURNED
Documents
| Title | Type | Pages | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agenda — PUBLIC HEALTH WELFARE AND LABOR COMMITTEE - SENATE AND HOUSE, Apr 2, 2025 | Agenda | 5 | Official source ↗ |
Speakers
Senator Missy Irvin Chair
Unverified
Representative Matthew J. Shepherd
Unverified
Senator John Payton
Unverified
Speaker 38
Speaker 39
Speaker 41
Speaker 63
Speaker 65
Speaker 69
Senator Dave Wallace
Unverified
Speaker 70
Speaker 87
Speaker 100
Speaker 102
Speaker 108
Speaker 110
Speaker 122
Speaker 132
Speaker 94
Speaker 115
Speaker 158
Speaker 161
John Fravel
Unverified
Speaker 167
Speaker 169
Senator Breanne Davis
Unverified
Senator Greg Leding
Unverified
Speaker 206
Speaker 214
Leela Chisholm
Unverified
Speaker 223
Speaker 225
Speaker 66
Speaker 231
Speaker 232
Speaker 252
Senator Clint Penzo
Unverified
Speaker 259
Speaker 264
Speaker 265
Speaker 59
Speaker 35
Senator Clarke Tucker
Unverified
Speaker 285
Speaker 286
Speaker 287
Speaker 291
Speaker 301
Speaker 281
Speaker 304
Speaker 306
Speaker 314
Speaker 327
Speaker 328
Speaker 333
Senator Fredrick J. Love
Unverified
Speaker 347
Speaker 171
Speaker 351
Speaker 313
Speaker 354
Speaker 321
Speaker 359
Senator Ricky Hill
Unverified
Speaker 373
Speaker 388
Senator Bart Hester
Unverified
Speaker 270
Speaker 355
Matt Gilmore
Unverified
Speaker 423
Speaker 241
Speaker 201
Speaker 453
Speaker 454
Speaker 459
Speaker 218