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CHAPTER 214. EXAMINING AND LICENSING BOARDS

Table of Sections
Section Headnote
GENERAL
214.001 POLICY AND REGULATION.
214.002 EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF REGULATION.
214.01 DEFINITIONS.
214.02 PUBLIC MEMBER, DEFINED.
214.025 COUNCIL OF HEALTH BOARDS.
214.03 STANDARDIZED TESTS.
214.04 SERVICES.
214.045 COORDINATION WITH BOARD OF TEACHING.
214.05 [Repealed, 1977 c 444 s 21]
214.055 FEES TO RECOVER EXPENDITURES.
214.06 FEES; LICENSE RENEWALS.
214.07 REPORTS.
214.071 HEALTH BOARDS; DIRECTORY OF LICENSEES.
214.072 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; WEB SITE.
214.073 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; AUTHORITY.
214.075 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS.
214.077 TEMPORARY LICENSE SUSPENSION; IMMINENT RISK OF SERIOUS HARM.
214.08 FISCAL YEAR.
214.09 MEMBERSHIP; COMPENSATION; REMOVAL; VACANCIES.
214.10 COMPLAINT, INVESTIGATION, AND HEARING.
214.101 CHILD SUPPORT; SUSPENSION OF LICENSE.
214.103 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; COMPLAINT, INVESTIGATION, AND HEARING.
214.104 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; SUBSTANTIATED MALTREATMENT.
214.105 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; DEFAULT ON FEDERAL LOANS OR SERVICE OBLIGATIONS.
214.106 HEALTH-RELATED BOARDS; RESPONSE TO INSURANCE FRAUD.
214.107 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES UNIT.
214.108 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; LICENSEE GUIDANCE.
214.109 RECORD KEEPING.
214.11 ADDITIONAL REMEDY.
214.12 CONTINUING EDUCATION.
214.121 PRICE DISCLOSURE REMINDER.
214.13 HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONS.
214.131 COMMISSIONER CEASE AND DESIST AUTHORITY; NONCOMPLIANCE.
214.14 [Repealed, 1983 c 260 s 68]
214.141 [Repealed, 1Sp1993 c 1 art 9 s 75]
214.15 TRADE REGULATION.
214.16 DATA COLLECTION; HEALTH CARE PROVIDER TAX.
HIV, HBV, AND HCV PREVENTION PROGRAM
214.17 HIV, HBV, AND HCV PREVENTION PROGRAM; PURPOSE AND SCOPE.
214.18 DEFINITIONS.
214.19 REPORTING OBLIGATIONS.
214.20 GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY OR RESTRICTIVE ACTION.
214.21 TEMPORARY SUSPENSION.
214.22 NOTICE; ACTION.
214.23 MONITORING.
214.24 INSPECTION OF PRACTICE.
214.25 DATA PRIVACY.
DIVERSION PROGRAMS
214.28 DIVERSION PROGRAM.
214.29 PROGRAM REQUIRED.
HEALTH PROFESSIONALS SERVICES PROGRAM
214.31 AUTHORITY.
214.32 PROGRAM OPERATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES.
214.33 REPORTING.
214.34 IMMUNITY.
214.35 CLASSIFICATION OF DATA.
214.355 GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
214.36 BOARD PARTICIPATION.
214.37 RULEMAKING.
VOLUNTEER HEALTH CARE PROVIDER PROGRAM
214.40 VOLUNTEER HEALTH CARE PROVIDER PROGRAM.

GENERAL

214.001 POLICY AND REGULATION.

Subdivision 1.Policy.

The legislature finds that the interests of the people of the state are served by the regulation of certain occupations. The legislature further finds: (1) that it is desirable for boards composed primarily of members of the occupations so regulated to be charged with formulating the policies and standards governing the occupation; (2) that economical and efficient administration of the regulation activities can be achieved through the provision of administrative services by departments of state government; and (3) that procedural fairness in the disciplining of persons regulated by the boards requires a separation of the investigative and prosecutorial functions from the board's judicial responsibility.

Subd. 2.Criteria for regulation.

The legislature declares that no regulation shall be imposed upon any occupation unless required for the safety and well being of the citizens of the state. In evaluating whether an occupation shall be regulated, the following factors shall be considered:

(1) whether the unregulated practice of an occupation may harm or endanger the health, safety and welfare of citizens of the state and whether the potential for harm is recognizable and not remote;

(2) whether the practice of an occupation requires specialized skill or training and whether the public needs and will benefit by assurances of initial and continuing occupational ability;

(3) whether the citizens of this state are or may be effectively protected by other means; and

(4) whether the overall cost effectiveness and economic impact would be positive for citizens of the state.

Subd. 3.Regulation of new occupations.

If the legislature finds after evaluation of the factors identified in subdivision 2 that it is necessary to regulate an occupation not heretofore credentialed or regulated, then regulation should be implemented consistent with the policy of this section, in modes in the following order:

(1) creation or extension of common law or statutory causes of civil action, and the creation or extension of criminal prohibitions;

(2) imposition of inspection requirements and the ability to enforce violations by injunctive relief in the courts;

(3) implementation of a system of registration whereby practitioners who will be the only persons permitted to use a designated title are listed on an official roster after having met predetermined qualifications; or

(4) implementation of a system of licensing whereby a practitioner must receive recognition by the state of having met predetermined qualifications, and persons not so licensed are prohibited from practicing.

Two or more of these modes may be simultaneously implemented if necessary and appropriate.

Subd. 4.Information from Council of Health Boards.

The chair of a standing committee in either house of the legislature may request information from the Council of Health Boards on proposals relating to the regulation of health occupations.

214.002 EVIDENCE IN SUPPORT OF REGULATION.

Subdivision 1.Written report.

Within 15 days of the introduction of a bill proposing new or expanded regulation of an occupation, the proponents of the new or expanded regulation shall submit a written report to the chair of the standing committee in each house of the legislature to which the bill was referred and to the Council of Health Boards setting out the information required by this section. If a committee chair requests that the report be submitted earlier, but no fewer than five days from introduction of the bill, the proponents shall comply with the request.

Subd. 2.Contents of report.

A report in support of the regulation of a health-related or non-health-related occupation must address the following issues as specifically as possible:

(1) the harm to the public that is or could be posed by the unregulated practice of the occupation or by continued practice at its current degree of regulation;

(2) any reason why existing civil or criminal laws or procedures are inadequate to prevent or remedy any harm to the public;

(3) why the proposed level of regulation is being proposed and why, if there is a lesser degree of regulation, it was not selected;

(4) any associations, organizations, or other groups representing the occupation seeking regulation and the approximate number of members in each in Minnesota;

(5) the functions typically performed by members of this occupational group and whether they are identical or similar to those performed by another occupational group or groups;

(6) whether any specialized training, education, or experience is required to engage in the occupation and, if so, how current practitioners have acquired that training, education, or experience;

(7) whether the proposed regulation would change the way practitioners of the occupation acquire any necessary specialized training, education, or experience and, if so, why;

(8) whether any current practitioners of the occupation in Minnesota lack whatever specialized training, education, or experience might be required to engage in the occupation and, if so, how the proposed regulation would address that lack;

(9) whether new entrants into the occupation would be required to provide evidence of any necessary training, education, or experience, or to pass an examination, or both;

(10) whether current practitioners would be required to provide evidence of any necessary training, education, or experience, or to pass an examination, and, if not, why not; and

(11) the expected impact of the proposed regulation on the supply of practitioners of the occupation and on the cost of services or goods provided by the occupation.

Subd. 3.Additional contents; health-related occupations.

In addition to the contents listed in subdivision 2, a report submitted by supporters of regulation of a health-related occupation must address the following issues as specifically as possible:

(1) typical work settings and conditions for practitioners of the occupation; and

(2) whether practitioners of the occupation work without supervision or are supervised and monitored by a regulated institution or by regulated health professionals.

214.01 DEFINITIONS.

Subdivision 1.Application.

The words defined in this section for purposes of this chapter have the meanings given them unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

Subd. 1a.Council of Health Boards.

"Council of Health Boards" means a collaborative body established by the health-related licensing boards.

Subd. 2.Health-related licensing board.

"Health-related licensing board" means the Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators established pursuant to section 144A.19, the Office of Unlicensed Complementary and Alternative Health Care Practice established pursuant to section 146A.02, the Board of Medical Practice created pursuant to section 147.01, the Board of Nursing created pursuant to section 148.181, the Board of Chiropractic Examiners established pursuant to section 148.02, the Board of Optometry established pursuant to section 148.52, the Board of Physical Therapy established pursuant to section 148.67, the Board of Psychology established pursuant to section 148.90, the Board of Social Work pursuant to section 148E.025, the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy pursuant to section 148B.30, the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy established by section 148B.51, the Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice established under section 148.622, the Board of Dentistry established pursuant to section 150A.02, the Board of Pharmacy established pursuant to section 151.02, the Board of Podiatric Medicine established pursuant to section 153.02, and the Board of Veterinary Medicine established pursuant to section 156.01.

Subd. 3.Non-health-related licensing board.

"Non-health-related licensing board" means the Board of Teaching established pursuant to section 122A.07, the Board of Barber Examiners established pursuant to section 154.001, the Board of Cosmetologist Examiners established pursuant to section 155A.20, the Board of Assessors established pursuant to section 270.41, the Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design established pursuant to section 326.04, the Private Detective and Protective Agent Licensing Board established pursuant to section 326.33, the Board of Accountancy established pursuant to section 326A.02, and the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board established pursuant to section 626.841.

214.02 PUBLIC MEMBER, DEFINED.

"Public member" means a person who is not, or never was, a member of the profession or occupation being licensed or regulated or the spouse of any such person, or a person who does not have or has never had, a material financial interest in either the providing of the professional service being licensed or regulated or an activity directly related to the profession or occupation being licensed or regulated.

History:

1973 c 638 s 61

214.025 COUNCIL OF HEALTH BOARDS.

The health-related licensing boards may establish a Council of Health Boards consisting of representatives of the health-related licensing boards and the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board. When reviewing legislation or legislative proposals relating to the regulation of health occupations, the council shall include the commissioner of health or a designee.

History:

2001 c 161 s 40

214.03 STANDARDIZED TESTS.

Subdivision 1.Standardized tests used.

All state examining and licensing boards, other than the State Board of Law Examiners, the Lawyers Professional Responsibility Board, or any other board established by the Supreme Court to regulate the practice of law and judicial functions, shall use national standardized tests for the objective, nonpractical portion of any examination given to prospective licensees to the extent that such national standardized tests are appropriate, except when the subject matter of the examination relates to the application of Minnesota law to the profession or calling being licensed.

Subd. 2.Health-related boards; special account.

An account is established in the special revenue fund where a health-related licensing board may deposit applicants' payments for national or regional standardized tests. Money in the account is appropriated to each board that has deposited money into the account, in an amount equal to the amount deposited by the board, to pay for the use of national or regional standardized tests.

214.04 SERVICES.

Subdivision 1.Services provided.

The commissioner of education with respect to the Board of Teaching; the commissioner of public safety with respect to the Board of Private Detective and Protective Agent Services; the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training; and the commissioner of revenue with respect to the Board of Assessors, shall provide suitable offices and other space, joint conference and hearing facilities, examination rooms, and the following administrative support services: purchasing service, accounting service, advisory personnel services, consulting services relating to evaluation procedures and techniques, data processing, duplicating, mailing services, automated printing of license renewals, and such other similar services of a housekeeping nature as are generally available to other agencies of state government. Investigative services shall be provided the boards by employees of the Office of Attorney General. The commissioner of health with respect to the health-related licensing boards shall provide mailing and office supply services and may provide other facilities and services listed in this subdivision at a central location upon request of the health-related licensing boards. The commissioner of commerce with respect to the remaining non-health-related licensing boards shall provide the above facilities and services at a central location for the remaining non-health-related licensing boards. The legal and investigative services for the boards shall be provided by employees of the attorney general assigned to the departments servicing the boards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the attorney general shall not be precluded by this section from assigning other attorneys to service a board if necessary in order to insure competent and consistent legal representation. Persons providing legal and investigative services shall to the extent practicable provide the services on a regular basis to the same board or boards.

Subd. 2.Costs.

The health-related licensing boards and the non-health-related licensing boards shall be required to provide compensation for the reasonable costs associated with providing the services and staff required by subdivisions 1 and 3. Transfers of funds to the account of the appropriate department as specified in subdivision 1 or the Office of Attorney General shall be made on the first day of each quarter of the biennium for services furnished during the preceding quarter, and all funds so transferred shall be deposited to the account of the appropriate department or office.

Subd. 2a.Performance of executive directors.

The governor may request that a health-related licensing board or the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board review the performance of the board's executive director. Upon receipt of the request, the board must respond by establishing a performance improvement plan or taking disciplinary or other corrective action, including dismissal. The board shall include the governor's representative as a voting member of the board in the board's discussions and decisions regarding the governor's request. The board shall report to the governor on action taken by the board, including an explanation if no action is deemed necessary.

Subd. 3.Officers; staff.

The executive director of each health-related board and the executive secretary of each non-health-related board shall be the chief administrative officer for the board but shall not be a member of the board. The executive director or executive secretary shall maintain the records of the board, account for all fees received by it, supervise and direct employees servicing the board, and perform other services as directed by the board. The executive directors, executive secretaries, and other employees of the following boards shall be hired by the board, and the executive directors or executive secretaries shall be in the unclassified civil service, except as provided in this subdivision:

(1) Dentistry;

(2) Medical Practice;

(3) Nursing;

(4) Pharmacy;

(5) Accountancy;

(6) Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience, and Interior Design;

(7) Barber Examiners;

(8) Cosmetologist Examiners;

(9) Teaching;

(10) Peace Officer Standards and Training;

(11) Social Work;

(12) Marriage and Family Therapy;

(13) Dietetics and Nutrition Practice;

(14) Licensed Professional Counseling; and

(15) Combative Sports Commission.

The executive directors or executive secretaries serving the boards are hired by those boards and are in the unclassified civil service, except for part-time executive directors or executive secretaries, who are not required to be in the unclassified service. Boards not requiring full-time executive directors or executive secretaries may employ them on a part-time basis. To the extent practicable, the sharing of part-time executive directors or executive secretaries by boards being serviced by the same department is encouraged. Persons providing services to those boards not listed in this subdivision, except executive directors or executive secretaries of the boards and employees of the attorney general, are classified civil service employees of the department servicing the board. To the extent practicable, the commissioner shall ensure that staff services are shared by the boards being serviced by the department. If necessary, a board may hire part-time, temporary employees to administer and grade examinations.

Subd. 4.Joint rulemaking.

Two or more health-related licensing boards or two or more non-health-related licensing boards may hold joint rulemaking proceedings on proposed rules relating to similar subject matters.

214.045 COORDINATION WITH BOARD OF TEACHING.

The commissioner of health and the health-related licensing boards must coordinate with the Board of Teaching when modifying licensure requirements for regulated persons in order to have consistent regulatory requirements for personnel who perform services in schools.

214.05 [Repealed, 1977 c 444 s 21]

214.055 FEES TO RECOVER EXPENDITURES.

A health-related licensing board that is created on or after September 1, 1995, must establish a fee structure which fully recovers its expenditures during a five-year period.

214.06 FEES; LICENSE RENEWALS.

Subdivision 1.Fees to recover expenditures.

The commissioner of health as authorized by section 214.13 and all health-related licensing boards and non-health-related licensing boards shall propose or adjust any fee according to section 16A.1283. As provided in section 16A.1285, the fees shall be an amount sufficient so that the total fees collected by each board will be based on anticipated expenditures, including expenditures for the programs authorized by sections 214.10, 214.103, 214.11, 214.17 to 214.24, 214.28 to 214.37, and 214.40, except that a health-related licensing board may have anticipated expenditures in excess of anticipated revenues in a biennium by using accumulated surplus revenues from fees collected by that board in previous bienniums. A health-related licensing board may accumulate up to one year of operating funds, and then shall propose a fee reduction according to section 16A.1283. A health-related licensing board shall not spend more money than the amount appropriated by the legislature for a biennium. For members of an occupation registered after July 1, 1984, by the commissioner of health under the provisions of section 214.13, the fee established must include an amount necessary to recover, over a five-year period, the commissioner's direct expenditures for adoption of the rules providing for registration of members of the occupation. All fees received shall be deposited in the state treasury.

Subd. 1a.Health occupations licensing account.

(a) Fees received by the commissioner of health or health-related licensing boards must be credited to the health occupations licensing account in the state government special revenue fund. The commissioner of management and budget shall ensure that the revenues and expenditures of each health-related licensing board are tracked separately in the health occupations licensing account.

(b) The fees collected must be used only by the boards identified in section 214.01, subdivision 2, and only for the purposes of the programs they administer. The legislature must not transfer money generated by these fees from the state government special revenue fund to the general fund. Surcharges collected by a health-related licensing board under section 16E.22 are not subject to this subdivision.

Subd. 1b.Health-related licensing boards; surcharges.

When a health-related licensing board imposes a surcharge, the surcharge must not be incorporated as a fee increase, but must be made as a separate assessment to be paid by the individuals regulated by the board.

Subd. 2.License renewal.

Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, each health-related and non-health-related licensing board shall promulgate rules providing for the renewal of licenses. The rules shall specify the period of time for which a license is valid, procedures and information required for renewal, and renewal fees to be set pursuant to subdivision 1.

Subd. 3.

[Repealed, 1997 c 187 art 5 s 36]

214.07 REPORTS.

Subdivision 1.Non-health-related board reports.

The non-health-related licensing boards shall prepare reports according to this subdivision by October 1 of each even-numbered year. Copies of the reports shall be delivered to the governor. The reports shall contain the following information relating to the two-year period ending the previous June 30:

(a) a general statement of board activities;

(b) the number of meetings and approximate total number of hours spent by all board members in meetings and on other board activities;

(c) the receipts and disbursements of board funds;

(d) the names of board members and their addresses, occupations, and dates of appointment and reappointment to the board;

(e) the names and job classifications of board employees;

(f) a brief summary of board rules proposed or adopted during the reporting period with appropriate citations to the State Register and published rules;

(g) the number of persons having each type of license and registration issued by the board as of June 30 in the year of the report;

(h) the locations and dates of the administration of examinations by the board;

(i) the number of persons examined by the board with the persons subdivided into groups showing age categories, sex, and states of residency;

(j) the number of persons licensed or registered by the board after taking the examinations referred to in clause (h) with the persons subdivided by age categories, sex, and states of residency;

(k) the number of persons not licensed or registered by the board after taking the examinations referred to in clause (h) with the persons subdivided by age categories, sex, and states of residency;

(l) the number of persons not taking the examinations referred to in clause (h) who were licensed or registered by the board or who were denied licensing or registration with the reasons for the licensing or registration or denial thereof and with the persons subdivided by age categories, sex, and states of residency;

(m) the number of persons previously licensed or registered by the board whose licenses or registrations were revoked, suspended, or otherwise altered in status with brief statements of the reasons for the revocation, suspension or alteration;

(n) the number of written and oral complaints and other communications received by the executive director or executive secretary of the board, a board member, or any other person performing services for the board (1) which allege or imply a violation of a statute or rule which the board is empowered to enforce and (2) which are forwarded to other agencies as required by section 214.10;

(o) a summary, by specific category, of the substance of the complaints and communications referred to in clause (n) and, for each specific category, the responses or dispositions thereof pursuant to section 214.10 or 214.11;

(p) any other objective information which the board members believe will be useful in reviewing board activities.

Subd. 1a.

[Repealed by amendment, Laws 2000 c 284 s 6]

Subd. 1b.Health-related licensing board reports.

Each health-related licensing board must prepare a report by October 15 of each even-numbered year. The report must be submitted to the administrative services unit serving the boards. The report must contain the following information for the two-year period ending the previous June 30: (1) the number and type of credentials issued or renewed; (2) the number of complaints received; (3) the number and age of complaints open at the end of the period; (4) receipts, disbursements, and major fees; and (5) such other information that the interests of health occupation regulation require. The report must also contain information showing historical trends. The reports must use a common format and consistent terminology and data.

Subd. 2.Administrative services report.

The administrative services unit serving the boards shall prepare a report by December 15 of each even-numbered year. One copy of the administrative services report must be delivered to each of the following: the governor, the commissioner of health, and the chairs of the house of representatives and senate policy and appropriations committees with jurisdiction over health-related licensing boards. The report must be delivered to the Legislative Reference Library as provided by section 3.195. The administrative services report must contain the following information:

(1) a summary of the information contained in the reports submitted by the health-related licensing boards pursuant to subdivision 1b;

(2) a description of the health-related licensing boards' cooperative activities during the two-year period ending the previous June 30;

(3) a description of emerging issues relating to health occupation regulation that affect more than one board or more than one occupation; and

(4) a copy of each health-related licensing board report submitted to the administrative services unit pursuant to subdivision 1b.

214.071 HEALTH BOARDS; DIRECTORY OF LICENSEES.

By July 1, 2009, each health-related licensing board, as defined in section 214.01, subdivision 2, shall establish a directory of licensees that includes biographical data for each licensee.

214.072 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; WEB SITE.

(a) Each health-related licensing board, as defined in section 214.01, subdivision 2, and the commissioner of health, as the regulator for occupational therapy practitioners, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and hearing instrument dispensers, are required to post on its public Web site the name and business address of each regulated individual who has:

(1) a conviction of a felony or gross misdemeanor occurring on or after July 1, 2013, in any state or jurisdiction;

(2) a malpractice judgment occurring on or after July 1, 2013, against the regulated individual in any state or jurisdiction. Information describing judgments shall be developed by the boards and the commissioner, shall be stated in plain English, and shall ensure the public understands the context of actions involving licensees; or

(3) any disciplinary or corrective action or restriction of privileges taken against the individual's license by the commissioner or a state licensing board in this state or in any other state or jurisdiction. The Web site shall identify the basis for disciplinary action, the type of disciplinary action taken, and whether the action was taken by the commissioner or a licensing board in this or another state or the federal government. This clause shall not include any action or restriction imposed through an agreement with a regulated individual and the health professionals services program under sections 214.31 to 214.37.

(b) The information described in this section shall be posted for new licensees issued a license on or after July 1, 2013, and for current licensees upon license renewal occurring on or after July 1, 2013.

214.073 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; AUTHORITY.

Each health-related licensing board, as defined in section 214.01, subdivision 2, and the commissioner of health, as the regulator for occupational therapy practitioners, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and hearing instrument dispensers, shall require an applicant on or after August 1, 2012, to provide the individual's primary business address at the time of initial application and all subsequent renewals.

214.075 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS.

Subdivision 1.Applications.

(a) By January 1, 2018, each health-related licensing board, as defined in section 214.01, subdivision 2, shall require applicants for initial licensure, licensure by endorsement, or reinstatement or other relicensure after a lapse in licensure, as defined by the individual health-related licensing boards, to submit to a criminal history records check of state data completed by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and a national criminal history records check, including a search of the records of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

(b) An applicant must complete a criminal background check if more than one year has elapsed since the applicant last submitted a background check to the board.

Subd. 2.Investigations.

If a health-related licensing board has reasonable cause to believe a licensee has been charged with or convicted of a crime in this or any other jurisdiction, the health-related licensing board may require the licensee to submit to a criminal history records check of state data completed by the BCA and a national criminal history records check, including a search of the records of the FBI.

Subd. 3.Consent form; fees; fingerprints.

(a) In order to effectuate the federal and state level, fingerprint-based criminal background check, the applicant or licensee must submit a completed criminal history records check consent form and a full set of fingerprints to the respective health-related licensing board or a designee in the manner and form specified by the board.

(b) The applicant or licensee is responsible for all fees associated with preparation of the fingerprints, the criminal records check consent form, and the criminal background check. The fees for the criminal records background check shall be set by the BCA and the FBI and are not refundable. The fees shall be submitted to the respective health-related licensing board by the applicant or licensee as prescribed by the respective board.

(c) All fees received by the health-related licensing boards under this subdivision shall be deposited in dedicated accounts in the special revenue fund and are appropriated to health-related licensing boards to pay for the criminal background checks conducted by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Subd. 4.Refusal to consent.

(a) The health-related licensing boards shall not issue a license to any applicant who refuses to consent to a criminal background check or fails to submit fingerprints within 90 days after submission of an application for licensure. Any fees paid by the applicant to the board shall be forfeited if the applicant refuses to consent to the criminal background check or fails to submit the required fingerprints.

(b) The failure of a licensee to submit to a criminal background check as provided in subdivision 3 is grounds for disciplinary action by the respective health-related licensing board.

Subd. 5.Submission of fingerprints to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

The health-related licensing board or designee shall submit applicant or licensee fingerprints to the BCA. The BCA shall perform a check for state criminal justice information and shall forward the applicant's or licensee's fingerprints to the FBI to perform a check for national criminal justice information regarding the applicant or licensee. The BCA shall report to the board the results of the state and national criminal justice information checks.

Subd. 6.Alternatives to fingerprint-based criminal background checks.

The health-related licensing board may require an alternative method of criminal history checks for an applicant or licensee who has submitted at least three sets of fingerprints in accordance with this section that have been unreadable by the BCA or the FBI.

Subd. 7.Opportunity to challenge accuracy of report.

Prior to taking disciplinary action against an applicant or a licensee based on a criminal conviction, the health-related licensing board shall provide the applicant or the licensee an opportunity to complete or challenge the accuracy of the criminal history information reported to the board. The applicant or licensee shall have 30 calendar days following notice from the board of the intent to deny licensure or to take disciplinary action to request an opportunity to correct or complete the record prior to the board taking disciplinary action based on the information reported to the board. The board shall provide the applicant up to 180 days to challenge the accuracy or completeness of the report with the agency responsible for the record. This subdivision does not affect the right of the subject of the data to contest the accuracy or completeness under section 13.04, subdivision 4.

Subd. 8.Instructions to the board; plans.

The health-related licensing boards, in collaboration with the commissioner of human services and the BCA, shall establish a plan for completing criminal background checks of all licensees who were licensed before the effective date requirement under subdivision 1. The plan must seek to minimize duplication of requirements for background checks of licensed health professionals. The plan for background checks of current licensees shall be developed no later than January 1, 2017, and may be contingent upon the implementation of a system by the BCA or FBI in which any new crimes that an applicant or licensee commits after an initial background check are flagged in the BCA's or FBI's database and reported back to the board. The plan shall include recommendations for any necessary statutory changes.

214.077 TEMPORARY LICENSE SUSPENSION; IMMINENT RISK OF SERIOUS HARM.

(a) Notwithstanding any provision of a health-related professional practice act, when a health-related licensing board receives a complaint regarding a regulated person and has probable cause to believe that the regulated person has violated a statute or rule that the health-related licensing board is empowered to enforce, and continued practice by the regulated person presents an imminent risk of serious harm, the health-related licensing board shall issue an order temporarily suspending the regulated person's authority to practice. The temporary suspension order shall specify the reason for the suspension, including the statute or rule alleged to have been violated. The temporary suspension order shall take effect upon personal service on the regulated person or the regulated person's attorney, or upon the third calendar day after the order is served by first class mail to the most recent address provided to the health-related licensing board for the regulated person or the regulated person's attorney.

(b) The temporary suspension shall remain in effect until the health-related licensing board or the commissioner completes an investigation, holds a contested case hearing pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act, and issues a final order in the matter as provided for in this section.

(c) At the time it issues the temporary suspension order, the health-related licensing board shall schedule a contested case hearing, on the merits of whether discipline is warranted, to be held pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act. The regulated person shall be provided with at least ten days' notice of any contested case hearing held pursuant to this section. The contested case hearing shall be scheduled to begin no later than 30 days after the effective service of the temporary suspension order.

(d) The administrative law judge presiding over the contested case hearing shall issue a report and recommendation to the health-related licensing board no later than 30 days after the final day of the contested case hearing. The health-related licensing board shall issue a final order pursuant to sections 14.61 and 14.62 within 30 days of receipt of the administrative law judge's report and recommendations. Except as provided in paragraph (e), if the health-related licensing board has not issued a final order pursuant to sections 14.61 and 14.62 within 30 days of receipt of the administrative law judge's report and recommendations, the temporary suspension shall be lifted.

(e) If the regulated person requests a delay in the contested case proceedings provided for in paragraphs (c) and (d) for any reason, the temporary suspension shall remain in effect until the health-related licensing board issues a final order pursuant to sections 14.61 and 14.62.

(f) This section shall not apply to the Office of Unlicensed Complementary and Alternative Health Practice established under section 146A.02. The commissioner of health shall conduct temporary suspensions for complementary and alternative health care practitioners in accordance with section 146A.09.

214.08 FISCAL YEAR.

All health-related boards and all non-health-related boards shall adopt the fiscal year system employed by the state.

History:

1975 c 136 s 50

214.09 MEMBERSHIP; COMPENSATION; REMOVAL; VACANCIES.

Subdivision 1.General.

The following standard provisions shall apply to the health-related and non-health-related licensing boards and to agencies created after July 1, 1975 in the executive branch, other than departments, whose primary functions include licensing, registration or certification of persons in specified professions or occupations.

Subd. 2.Membership terms.

An appointment to a board must be made in the manner provided in section 15.0597. The terms of the members shall be four years with the terms ending on the first Monday in January. The appointing authority shall appoint as nearly as possible one-fourth of the members to terms expiring each year. If the number of members is not evenly divisible by four, the greater number of members, as necessary, shall be appointed to terms expiring in the year of commencement of the governor's term and the year or years immediately thereafter. If the number of terms which can be served by a member of a board is limited by law, a partial term must be counted for this purpose if the time served by a member is greater than one-half of the duration of the regular term. If the membership is composed of categories of members from occupations, industries, political subdivisions, the public or other groupings of persons, and if the categories have two or more members each, the appointing authority shall appoint as nearly as possible one-fourth of the members in each category at each appointment date. Members may serve until their successors are appointed and qualify. If the appointing authority fails to appoint a successor by July 1 of the year in which the term expires, the term of the member for whom a successor has not been appointed shall extend until the first Monday in January four years after the scheduled end of the original term.

Subd. 3.Compensation.

(a) Members of health-related licensing boards may be compensated at the rate of $75 a day spent on board activities and members of non-health-related licensing boards may be compensated at the rate of $55 a day spent on board activities when authorized by the board, plus expenses in the same manner and amount as authorized by the commissioner's plan adopted under section 43A.18, subdivision 2. Members who, as a result of time spent attending board meetings, incur child care expenses that would not otherwise have been incurred, may be reimbursed for those expenses upon board authorization.

(b) Members who are state employees or employees of the political subdivisions of the state must not receive the daily payment for activities that occur during working hours for which they are also compensated by the state or political subdivision. However, a state or political subdivision employee may receive the daily payment if the employee uses vacation time or compensatory time accumulated in accordance with a collective bargaining agreement or compensation plan for board activity. Members who are state employees or employees of the political subdivisions of the state may receive the expenses provided for in this subdivision unless the expenses are reimbursed by another source. Members who are state employees or employees of political subdivisions of the state may be reimbursed for child care expenses only for time spent on board activities that are outside their working hours.

(c) Each board must adopt internal standards prescribing what constitutes a day spent on board activities for purposes of making daily payments under this subdivision.

Subd. 4.Removal; vacancies.

A member may be removed by the appointing authority at any time (1) for cause after notice and hearing, (2) if the board fails to prepare and submit the report required by section 214.07, or (3) after missing three consecutive meetings. The chair of the board shall inform the appointing authority of a member missing the three consecutive meetings. After the second consecutive missed meeting and before the next meeting, the secretary of the board shall notify the member in writing that the member may be removed for missing the next meeting. In the case of a vacancy on the board, the appointing authority shall appoint a person to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the unexpired term.

Subd. 5.Health-related boards.

No current member of a health-related licensing board may seek a paid employment position with that board.

214.10 COMPLAINT, INVESTIGATION, AND HEARING.

Subdivision 1.Receipt of complaint; notice.

The executive director or executive secretary of a board, a board member or any other person who performs services for the board who receives a complaint or other communication, whether oral or written, which complaint or communication alleges or implies a violation of a statute or rule which the board is empowered to enforce, shall promptly forward the substance of the communication on a form prepared by the attorney general to the designee of the attorney general responsible for providing legal services to the board. Before proceeding further with the communication, the designee of the attorney general may require the complaining party to state the complaint in writing on a form prepared by the attorney general. Complaints which relate to matters within the jurisdiction of another governmental agency shall be forwarded to that agency by the executive director or executive secretary. An officer of that agency shall advise the executive director or executive secretary of the disposition of that complaint. A complaint received by another agency which relates to a statute or rule which a licensing board is empowered to enforce shall be forwarded to the executive director or executive secretary of the board to be processed in accordance with this section. No complaint alleging a matter within the jurisdiction of the board shall be dismissed by a board unless at least two board members have reviewed the matter. If a board makes a determination to investigate a complaint, it shall notify a licensee who is the subject of an investigation that an investigation has been initiated at a time when such notice will not compromise the investigation.

Subd. 2.Investigation and hearing.

The designee of the attorney general providing legal services to a board shall evaluate the communications forwarded by the board or its members or staff. If the communication alleges a violation of statute or rule which the board is to enforce, the designee is empowered to investigate the facts alleged in the communication. In the process of evaluation and investigation, the designee shall consult with or seek the assistance of the executive director, executive secretary, or, if the board determines, a member of the board who has been appointed by the board to assist the designee. The designee may also consult with or seek the assistance of any other qualified persons who are not members of the board who the designee believes will materially aid in the process of evaluation or investigation. The executive director, executive secretary, or the consulted board member may attempt to correct improper activities and redress grievances through education, conference, conciliation and persuasion, and in these attempts may be assisted by the designee of the attorney general. If the attempts at correction or redress do not produce satisfactory results in the opinion of the executive director, executive secretary, or the consulted board member, or if after investigation the designee providing legal services to the board, the executive director, executive secretary, or the consulted board member believes that the communication and the investigation suggest illegal or unauthorized activities warranting board action, the person having the belief shall inform the executive director or executive secretary of the board who shall schedule a contested case hearing in accordance with chapter 14. Before directing the holding of a contested case hearing, the executive director, executive secretary, or the designee of the attorney general shall have considered the recommendations of the consulted board member. Before scheduling a contested case hearing, the executive director or executive secretary must have received a verified written complaint from the complaining party. A board member who was consulted during the course of an investigation may participate at the hearing but may not vote on any matter pertaining to the case. The executive director or executive secretary of the board shall promptly inform the complaining party of the final disposition of the complaint. Nothing in this section shall preclude the board from scheduling, on its own motion, a contested case hearing based upon the findings or report of the board's executive director or executive secretary, a board member or the designee of the attorney general assigned to the board. Nothing in this section shall preclude a member of the board, executive director, or executive secretary from initiating a complaint.

Subd. 2a.Proceedings.

A board shall initiate proceedings to suspend or revoke a license or shall refuse to renew a license of a person licensed by the board who is convicted in a court of competent jurisdiction of violating section 609.2231, subdivision 8, 609.23, 609.231, 609.2325, 609.233, 609.2335, 609.234, 609.465, 609.466, 609.52, or 609.72, subdivision 3.

Subd. 3.Discovery; subpoenas.

In all matters pending before it relating to its lawful regulation activities, a board may issue subpoenas and compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of all necessary papers, books, records, documents, and other evidentiary material. Any person failing or refusing to appear or testify regarding any matter about which the person may be lawfully questioned or produce any papers, books, records, documents, or other evidentiary materials in the matter to be heard, after having been required by order of the board or by a subpoena of the board to do so may, upon application to the district court in any district, be ordered to comply therewith; provided that in matters to which the Peace Officers Standards and Training Board is a party, application shall be made to the district court having jurisdiction where the event giving rise to the matter occurred. The chair of the board acting on behalf of the board may issue subpoenas and any board member may administer oaths to witnesses, or take their affirmation. Depositions may be taken within or without the state in the manner provided by law for the taking of depositions in civil actions. A subpoena or other process or paper may be served upon any person named therein, anywhere within the state by any officer authorized to serve subpoenas or other process or paper in civil actions, with the same fees and mileage and in the same manner as prescribed by law for service of process issued out of the district court of this state. Fees and mileage and other costs shall be paid as the board directs.

Subd. 4.

[Repealed, 1993 c 326 art 7 s 22]

Subd. 5.

[Repealed, 1993 c 326 art 7 s 22]

Subd. 6.

[Repealed, 1993 c 326 art 7 s 22]

Subd. 7.

[Repealed, 1993 c 326 art 7 s 22]

Subd. 8.Special requirements for health-related licensing boards.

In addition to the provisions of this section that apply to all examining and licensing boards, the requirements in this subdivision apply to all health-related licensing boards, except the Board of Veterinary Medicine.

(a) If the executive director or consulted board member determines that a communication received alleges a violation of statute or rule that involves sexual contact with a patient or client, the communication shall be forwarded to the designee of the attorney general for an investigation of the facts alleged in the communication. If, after an investigation it is the opinion of the executive director or consulted board member that there is sufficient evidence to justify disciplinary action, the board shall conduct a disciplinary conference or hearing. If, after a hearing or disciplinary conference the board determines that misconduct involving sexual contact with a patient or client occurred, the board shall take disciplinary action. Notwithstanding subdivision 2, a board may not attempt to correct improper activities or redress grievances through education, conciliation, and persuasion, unless in the opinion of the executive director or consulted board member there is insufficient evidence to justify disciplinary action. The board may settle a case by stipulation prior to, or during, a hearing if the stipulation provides for disciplinary action.

(b) A board member who has a direct current or former financial connection or professional relationship to a person who is the subject of board disciplinary activities must not participate in board activities relating to that case.

(c) Each health-related licensing board shall establish procedures for exchanging information with other Minnesota state boards, agencies, and departments responsible for regulating health-related occupations, facilities, and programs, and for coordinating investigations involving matters within the jurisdiction of more than one regulatory body. The procedures must provide for the forwarding to other regulatory bodies of all information and evidence, including the results of investigations, that are relevant to matters within that licensing body's regulatory jurisdiction. Each health-related licensing board shall have access to any data of the Department of Human Services relating to a person subject to the jurisdiction of the licensing board. The data shall have the same classification under chapter 13, the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, in the hands of the agency receiving the data as it had in the hands of the Department of Human Services.

(d) Each health-related licensing board shall establish procedures for exchanging information with other states regarding disciplinary actions against licensees. The procedures must provide for the collection of information from other states about disciplinary actions taken against persons who are licensed to practice in Minnesota or who have applied to be licensed in this state and the dissemination of information to other states regarding disciplinary actions taken in Minnesota. In addition to any authority in chapter 13 permitting the dissemination of data, the board may, in its discretion, disseminate data to other states regardless of its classification under chapter 13. Before transferring any data that is not public, the board shall obtain reasonable assurances from the receiving state that the data will not be made public.

Subd. 9.Acts against minors.

(a) As used in this subdivision, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(1) "Licensed person" means a person who is licensed under this chapter by the Board of Nursing, the Board of Psychology, the Social Work Licensing Board, the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy, the Board of Unlicensed Mental Health Service Providers, the Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, or the Board of Teaching.

(2) "Crime against a minor" means conduct that constitutes a violation of section 609.185, 609.19, 609.195, 609.20, 609.205, 609.2112, 609.2113, 609.2114, 609.215, 609.221, 609.222, 609.223, 609.342, 609.343, 609.345, or a felony violation of section 609.377.

(b) In any license revocation proceeding, there is a rebuttable presumption that a licensed person who is convicted in a court of competent jurisdiction of committing a crime against a minor is unfit to practice the profession or occupation for which that person is licensed.

Subd. 10.Board of Peace Officers Standards and Training; receipt of complaint.

Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision 1 to the contrary, when the executive director or any member of the Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training produces or receives a written statement or complaint that alleges a violation of a statute or rule that the board is empowered to enforce, the executive director shall designate the appropriate law enforcement agency to investigate the complaint and shall order it to conduct an inquiry into the complaint's allegations. The investigating agency must complete the inquiry and submit a written summary of it to the executive director within 30 days of the order for inquiry.

Subd. 11.Board of Peace Officers Standards and Training; reasonable grounds determination.

(a) After the investigation is complete, the executive director shall convene a three-member committee of the board to determine if the complaint constitutes reasonable grounds to believe that a violation within the board's enforcement jurisdiction has occurred. At least two members of the committee must be board members who are peace officers. No later than 30 days before the committee meets, the executive director shall give the licensee who is the subject of the complaint and the complainant written notice of the meeting. The executive director shall also give the licensee a copy of the complaint. Before making its determination, the committee shall give the complaining party and the licensee who is the subject of the complaint a reasonable opportunity to be heard.

(b) The committee shall, by majority vote, after considering the information supplied by the investigating agency and any additional information supplied by the complainant or the licensee who is the subject of the complaint, take one of the following actions:

(1) find that reasonable grounds exist to believe that a violation within the board's enforcement jurisdiction has occurred and order that an administrative hearing be held;

(2) decide that no further action is warranted; or

(3) continue the matter.

The executive director shall promptly give notice of the committee's action to the complainant and the licensee.

(c) If the committee determines that a complaint does not relate to matters within its enforcement jurisdiction but does relate to matters within another state or local agency's enforcement jurisdiction, it shall refer the complaint to the appropriate agency for disposition.

Subd. 12.Board of Peace Officers Standards and Training; administrative hearing; board action.

(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision 2 to the contrary, an administrative hearing shall be held if ordered by the committee under subdivision 11, paragraph (b). After the administrative hearing is held, the administrative law judge shall refer the matter to the full board for final action.

(b) Before the board meets to take action on the matter and the executive director must notify the complainant and the licensee who is the subject of the complaint. After the board meets, the executive director must promptly notify these individuals and the chief law enforcement officer of the agency employing the licensee of the board's disposition.

Subd. 13.Board of Peace Officers Standards and Training; definition.

As used in subdivisions 10 to 12, "appropriate law enforcement agency" means the law enforcement agency assigned by the executive director and the chair of the committee of the board convened under subdivision 11.

Subd. 14.Complementary and alternative health care practitioners.

This section shall not apply to complementary and alternative health care practitioners practicing under chapter 146A. Complaints and disciplinary actions against complementary and alternative health care practitioners shall be conducted in accordance with chapter 146A.

214.101 CHILD SUPPORT; SUSPENSION OF LICENSE.

Subdivision 1.Court order; hearing on suspension.

(a) For purposes of this section, "licensing board" means a licensing board or other state agency that issues an occupational license.

(b) If a licensing board receives an order from a court or a child support magistrate or a notice from a public authority responsible for child support enforcement under section 518A.66 dealing with suspension of a license of a person found by the court or the public authority to be in arrears in child support or maintenance payments, or both, the board shall, within 30 days of receipt of the order or public authority notice, suspend the license as directed by the order or notice.

Subd. 2.

[Repealed, 1995 c 257 art 1 s 36]

Subd. 3.

[Repealed, 1995 c 257 art 1 s 36]

Subd. 4.Verification of payments.

A board may not issue, reinstate, or renew a license of a person who has been suspended or is the subject of an order or notice under this section until it receives notification from the court, child support magistrate, or public authority that referred the matter to the board confirming that the applicant is not in arrears in either child support or maintenance payments, or confirming that the person is in compliance with a written payment plan regarding both current support and arrearages.

Subd. 5.Application.

This section applies to support obligations ordered by any state, territory, or district of the United States.

214.103 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; COMPLAINT, INVESTIGATION, AND HEARING.

Subdivision 1.Application.

For purposes of this section, "board" means "health-related licensing board" and does not include the non-health-related licensing boards. Nothing in this section supersedes section 214.10, subdivisions 2a, 3, 8, and 9, as they apply to the health-related licensing boards.

Subd. 1a.Notifications and resolution.

(a) No more than 14 calendar days after receiving a complaint regarding a licensee, the board shall notify the complainant that the board has received the complaint and shall provide the complainant with the written description of the board's complaint process. The board shall periodically, but no less than every 120 days, notify the complainant of the status of the complaint consistent with section 13.41.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (d), no more than 60 calendar days after receiving a complaint regarding a licensee, the board must notify the licensee that the board has received a complaint and inform the licensee of:

(1) the substance of the complaint;

(2) the sections of the law that have allegedly been violated;

(3) the sections of the professional rules that have allegedly been violated; and

(4) whether an investigation is being conducted.

(c) The board shall periodically, but no less than every 120 days, notify the licensee of the status of the complaint consistent with section 13.41.

(d) Paragraphs (b) and (c) do not apply if the board determines that such notice would compromise the board's investigation and that such notice cannot reasonably be accomplished within this time.

(e) No more than one year after receiving a complaint regarding a licensee, the board must resolve or dismiss the complaint unless the board determines that resolving or dismissing the complaint cannot reasonably be accomplished in this time and is not in the public interest.

(f) Failure to make notifications or to resolve the complaint within the time established in this subdivision shall not deprive the board of jurisdiction to complete the investigation or to take corrective, disciplinary, or other action against the licensee that is authorized by law. Such a failure by the board shall not be the basis for a licensee's request for the board to dismiss a complaint, and shall not be considered by an administrative law judge, the board, or any reviewing court.

Subd. 2.Receipt of complaint.

The boards shall receive and resolve complaints or other communications, whether oral or written, against regulated persons. Before resolving an oral complaint, the executive director or a board member designated by the board to review complaints shall require the complainant to state the complaint in writing or authorize transcribing the complaint. The executive director or the designated board member shall determine whether the complaint alleges or implies a violation of a statute or rule which the board is empowered to enforce. The executive director or the designated board member may consult with the designee of the attorney general as to a board's jurisdiction over a complaint. If the executive director or the designated board member determines that it is necessary, the executive director may seek additional information to determine whether the complaint is jurisdictional or to clarify the nature of the allegations by obtaining records or other written material, obtaining a handwriting sample from the regulated person, clarifying the alleged facts with the complainant, and requesting a written response from the subject of the complaint. The executive director may authorize a field investigation to clarify the nature of the allegations and the facts that led to the complaint.

Subd. 3.Referral to other agencies.

The executive director shall forward to another governmental agency any complaints received by the board which do not relate to the board's jurisdiction but which relate to matters within the jurisdiction of another governmental agency. The agency shall advise the executive director of the disposition of the complaint. A complaint or other information received by another governmental agency relating to a statute or rule which a board is empowered to enforce must be forwarded to the executive director of the board to be processed in accordance with this section. Governmental agencies shall coordinate and conduct joint investigations of complaints that involve more than one governmental agency.

Subd. 4.Role of attorney general.

The executive director or the designated board member shall forward a complaint and any additional information to the designee of the attorney general when the executive director or the designated board member determines that a complaint is jurisdictional and:

(1) requires investigation before the executive director or the designated board member may resolve the complaint;

(2) that attempts at resolution for disciplinary action or the initiation of a contested case hearing is appropriate;

(3) that an agreement for corrective action is warranted; or

(4) that the complaint should be dismissed, consistent with subdivision 8.

Subd. 5.Investigation by attorney general.

(a) If the executive director or the designated board member determines that investigation is necessary before resolving the complaint, the executive director shall forward the complaint and any additional information to the designee of the attorney general. The designee of the attorney general shall evaluate the communications forwarded and investigate as appropriate.

(b) The designee of the attorney general may also investigate any other complaint forwarded under subdivision 3 when the designee of the attorney general determines that investigation is necessary.

(c) In the process of evaluation and investigation, the designee shall consult with or seek the assistance of the executive director or the designated board member. The designee may also consult with or seek the assistance of other qualified persons who are not members of the board who the designee believes will materially aid in the process of evaluation or investigation.

(d) Upon completion of the investigation, the designee shall forward the investigative report to the executive director with recommendations for further consideration or dismissal.

Subd. 6.Attempts at resolution.

(a) At any time after receipt of a complaint, the executive director or the designated board member may attempt to resolve the complaint with the regulated person. The available means for resolution include a conference or any other written or oral communication with the regulated person. A conference may be held for the purposes of investigation, negotiation, education, or conciliation. Neither the executive director nor any member of a board's staff shall be a voting member in any attempts at resolutions which may result in disciplinary or corrective action. The results of attempts at resolution with the regulated person may include a recommendation to the board for disciplinary action, an agreement between the executive director or the designated board member and the regulated person for corrective action, or the dismissal of a complaint. If attempts at resolution are not in the public interest, a contested case hearing may be initiated.

(1) The designee of the attorney general shall represent the board in all attempts at resolution which the executive director or the designated board member anticipate may result in disciplinary action. A stipulation between the executive director or the designated board member and the regulated person shall be presented to the board for the board's consideration. An approved stipulation and resulting order shall become public data.

(2) The designee of the attorney general shall represent the board upon the request of the executive director or the designated board member in all attempts at resolution which the executive director or the designated board member anticipate may result in corrective action. Any agreement between the executive director or the designated board member and the regulated person for corrective action shall be in writing and shall be reviewed by the designee of the attorney general prior to its execution. The agreement for corrective action shall provide for dismissal of the complaint upon successful completion by the regulated person of the corrective action.

(b) Upon receipt of a complaint alleging sexual contact or sexual conduct with a client, the board must forward the complaint to the designee of the attorney general for an investigation. If, after it is investigated, the complaint appears to provide a basis for disciplinary action, the board shall resolve the complaint by disciplinary action or initiate a contested case hearing. Notwithstanding paragraph (a), clause (2), a board may not take corrective action or dismiss a complaint alleging sexual contact or sexual conduct with a client unless, in the opinion of the executive director, the designated board member, and the designee of the attorney general, there is insufficient evidence to justify disciplinary action.

Subd. 7.Contested case hearing.

If the executive director or the designated board member determines that attempts at resolution of a complaint are not in the public interest, the executive director or the designated board member, after consultation with the designee of the attorney general, and the concurrence of a second board member, may initiate a contested case hearing under chapter 14. The designated board member or any board member who was consulted during the course of an investigation may participate at the contested case hearing. A designated or consulted board member may not deliberate or vote in any proceeding before the board pertaining to the case.

Subd. 8.Dismissal and reopening of a complaint.

(a) A complaint may not be dismissed without the concurrence of at least two board members and, upon the request of the complainant, a review by a representative of the attorney general's office. The designee of the attorney general must review before dismissal any complaints which allege any violation of chapter 609, any conduct which would be required to be reported under section 626.556 or 626.557, any sexual contact or sexual conduct with a client, any violation of a federal law, any actual or potential inability to practice the regulated profession or occupation by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental or physical condition, any violation of state medical assistance laws, or any disciplinary action related to credentialing in another jurisdiction or country which was based on the same or related conduct specified in this subdivision.

(b) The board may reopen a dismissed complaint if the board receives newly discovered information that was not available to the board during the initial investigation of the complaint, or if the board receives a new complaint that indicates a pattern of behavior or conduct.

Subd. 9.Information to complainant.

A board shall furnish to a person who made a complaint a written description of the board's complaint process, and actions of the board relating to the complaint.

Subd. 10.Prohibited participation by board member.

A board member who has actual bias or a current or former direct financial or professional connection with a regulated person may not vote in board actions relating to the regulated person.

214.104 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; SUBSTANTIATED MALTREATMENT.

(a) A health-related licensing board shall make determinations as to whether regulated persons who are under the board's jurisdiction should be the subject of disciplinary or corrective action because of substantiated maltreatment under section 626.556 or 626.557. The board shall make a determination upon receipt, and after the review, of an investigation memorandum or other notice of substantiated maltreatment under section 626.556 or 626.557, or of a notice from the commissioner of human services that a background study of a regulated person shows substantiated maltreatment.

(b) Upon completion of its review of a report of substantiated maltreatment, the board shall notify the commissioner of human services of its determination. The board shall notify the commissioner of human services if, following a review of the report of substantiated maltreatment, the board determines that it does not have jurisdiction in the matter and the commissioner shall make the appropriate disqualification decision regarding the regulated person as otherwise provided in chapter 245C. The board shall also notify the commissioner of health or the commissioner of human services immediately upon receipt of knowledge of a facility or program allowing a regulated person to provide direct contact services at the facility or program while not complying with requirements placed on the regulated person.

(c) In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the board may, through its designated board member, temporarily suspend the license of a licensee; deny a credential to an applicant; or require the regulated person to be continuously supervised, if the board finds there is probable cause to believe the regulated person referred to the board according to paragraph (a) poses an immediate risk of harm to vulnerable persons. The board shall consider all relevant information available, which may include but is not limited to:

(1) the extent the action is needed to protect persons receiving services or the public;

(2) the recency of the maltreatment;

(3) the number of incidents of maltreatment;

(4) the intrusiveness or violence of the maltreatment; and

(5) the vulnerability of the victim of maltreatment.

The action shall take effect upon written notice to the regulated person, served by certified mail, specifying the statute violated. The board shall notify the commissioner of health or the commissioner of human services of the suspension or denial of a credential. The action shall remain in effect until the board issues a temporary stay or a final order in the matter after a hearing or upon agreement between the board and the regulated person. At the time the board issues the notice, the regulated person shall inform the board of all settings in which the regulated person is employed or practices. The board shall inform all known employment and practice settings of the board action and schedule a disciplinary hearing to be held under chapter 14. The board shall provide the regulated person with at least 30 days' notice of the hearing, unless the parties agree to a hearing date that provides less than 30 days' notice, and shall schedule the hearing to begin no later than 90 days after issuance of the notice of hearing.

214.105 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; DEFAULT ON FEDERAL LOANS OR SERVICE OBLIGATIONS.

A health-related licensing board may refuse to grant a license or may impose disciplinary action against a person regulated by the board if the person is intentionally in nonpayment, default, or breach of a repayment or service obligation under any federal educational loan, loan repayment, or service conditional scholarship program. The board shall consider the reasons for nonpayment, default, or breach of a repayment or service obligation and may not impose disciplinary action against a person in cases of total and permanent disability or long-term temporary disability lasting more than a year.

214.106 HEALTH-RELATED BOARDS; RESPONSE TO INSURANCE FRAUD.

A health-related board may revoke, suspend, condition, limit, restrict, or qualify a license to practice when clear and convincing evidence indicates the licensee has committed insurance fraud or subsequent to a conviction relating to fraud.

214.107 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES UNIT.

Subdivision 1.Establishment.

An administrative services unit is established for the health-related licensing boards in section 214.01, subdivision 2, to perform administrative, financial, and management functions common to all the boards in a manner that streamlines services, reduces expenditures, targets the use of state resources, and meets the mission of public protection.

Subd. 2.Authority.

The administrative services unit shall act as an agent of the boards.

Subd. 3.Funding.

(a) The administrative service unit shall apportion among the health-related licensing boards an amount to be allocated to each health-related licensing board. The amount apportioned to each board shall equal each board's share of the annual operating costs for the unit and shall be deposited into the state government special revenue fund.

(b) The administrative services unit may receive and expend reimbursements for services performed for other agencies.

214.108 HEALTH-RELATED LICENSING BOARDS; LICENSEE GUIDANCE.

A health-related licensing board may offer guidance to current licensees about the application of laws and rules the board is empowered to enforce. This guidance shall not bind any court or other adjudicatory body.

214.109 RECORD KEEPING.

(a) A board may take administrative action against a regulated person whose records do not meet the standards of professional practice. Action taken under this paragraph shall not be considered disciplinary action.

(b) Records that are fraudulent or could result in patient harm may be handled through disciplinary or other corrective action.

214.11 ADDITIONAL REMEDY.

In addition to any other remedy provided by law, a licensing board may in its own name bring an action in district court for injunctive relief to restrain any unauthorized practice or violation or threatened violation of any statute or rule which the board is empowered to regulate or enforce. A temporary restraining order may be granted in the proceeding if continued activity by a person would create an imminent risk of harm to others. Injunctive relief granted pursuant to this section shall not relieve a person enjoined from criminal prosecution by any competent authority or from disciplinary action by the board in respect to the person's license or application for license or renewal.

History:

1976 c 222 s 6

214.12 CONTINUING EDUCATION.

Subdivision 1.Requirements.

The health-related and non-health-related licensing boards may promulgate by rule requirements for renewal of licenses designed to promote the continuing professional competence of licensees. These requirements of continuing professional education or training shall be designed solely to improve professional skills and shall not exceed an average attendance requirement of 50 clock hours per year. All requirements promulgated by the boards shall be effective commencing January 1, 1977, or at a later date as the board may determine. The 50 clock hour limitation shall not apply to the board of teaching.

Subd. 2.

[Repealed, 1999 c 5 s 1]

Subd. 3.Fetal alcohol syndrome.

The Board of Medical Practice and the Board of Nursing shall require by rule that family practitioners, pediatricians, obstetricians and gynecologists, and other licensees who have primary responsibility for diagnosing and treating fetal alcohol syndrome in pregnant women or children receive education on the subject of fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effects, including how to: (1) screen pregnant women for alcohol abuse; (2) identify affected children; and (3) provide referral information on needed services.

Subd. 4.Parental depression.

The health-related licensing boards that regulate professions that serve caregivers at risk of depression, or their children, including behavioral health and therapy, chiropractic, marriage and family therapy, medical practice, nursing, psychology, and social work, shall provide educational materials to licensees on the subject of parental depression and its potential effects on children if unaddressed, including how to:

(1) screen mothers for depression;

(2) identify children who are affected by their mother's depression; and

(3) provide treatment or referral information on needed services.

Subd. 5.Health professionals services program.

The health-related licensing boards shall include information regarding the health professionals services program on their Web sites.

214.121 PRICE DISCLOSURE REMINDER.

Each health-related licensing board shall at least annually inform and remind its licensees of the price disclosure requirements of section 62J.052 or 151.214, as applicable, through the board's regular means of communicating with its licensees.

214.13 HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONS.

Subdivision 1.Application for credential.

The commissioner of health shall promote the recognition of human services occupations useful in the effective delivery of human services. The commissioner shall coordinate the development of a credentials policy among the health-related licensing boards consistent with section 214.001. The commissioner shall, consistent with section 214.001, establish procedures for the identification of human services occupations not now credentialed by the state, recommend appropriate regulatory modes, and promulgate by rule standards and procedures relating to the credentialing of persons practicing in the affected occupations. At the time of submission of a letter of intent to enter the credentialing process, an occupational applicant group shall pay a fee of $1,000 to the commissioner. The fee is nonrefundable and must be deposited with the commissioner of management and budget and credited to the general fund. The commissioner may require an occupational applicant group to submit information relating to, and to recommend and justify regulatory modes and standards consistent with, the provisions of section 214.001. If the commissioner determines that credentialing of an occupation is appropriate, the commissioner is empowered only to register the occupation. Before promulgating any rules resulting in registration for an occupation the commissioner shall consult with state boards or agencies charged with regulating similar occupations in order to define the scope and range of practice for the registered occupation and the degree of supervision required. As used in this section, registration is defined as in section 214.001, subdivision 3, clause (c).

Subd. 2.Other agency's comment.

Before promulgating any rules regulating a specific occupation under this section, the commissioner shall determine whether a substantial number of persons in that occupation will be employed by an employer who is regulated by or funded through another state agency. If the commissioner so determines, then the commissioner must submit the proposed rules to the head or governing board of that agency for review and comment. The agency shall review the rules to insure compliance with laws which are administered or enforced by that agency. Agency comment shall be forwarded to the commissioner within 90 days of receiving the proposed rules. After receipt of agency comment, the commissioner may proceed to promulgate the rules.

Subd. 3.Rules; effect; report.

Rules promulgated by the commissioner pursuant to subdivision 1 may include procedures and standards relating to the registration requirement, the scope of authorized practice, fees, supervision required, continuing education, career progression and disciplinary matters. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, persons registered under the authority of the rules promulgated by the commissioner shall not, for a period of four years after the effective date of the rules, be subject to any action by a health-related licensing board for violation of the board's laws or rules provided the person's practice or conduct is recognized by the rules promulgated by the commissioner. Three years after the effective date of the commissioner's rules, the commissioner shall make a report to the legislature on the usefulness of the new occupational group, any problems encountered in administering the regulation of the group, and any necessary statutory changes recommended to continue, discontinue, or modify the regulation of the group.

Subd. 4.Delegation of regulation activities.

The commissioner of health shall wherever possible delegate the administration of regulation activities to a health-related licensing board with the concurrence of that board. If the commissioner of health delegates this function, the licensing board may regularly bill the commissioner of health for the cost of performing this function. The licensing board may directly set and charge fees in accordance with the provisions of section 214.06. The commissioner of health may establish an advisory council to advise the commissioner or the appropriate health-related licensing board on matters relating to the registration and regulation of an occupation. A council shall have seven members appointed by the commissioner of which five are members of the registered occupation or related registered or licensed occupations, and two are public members. The terms, compensation, and removal of members shall be as provided in section 15.059.

Subd. 5.Recommendation on regulation; application renewal.

The commissioner of health shall exercise care to prevent the proliferation of unessential registered human services occupations. In evaluating a currently unregistered occupation the commissioner may determine that registration of the occupation is not appropriate, but that implementation of another mode as set forth in section 214.001, subdivision 3, is appropriate. For a period of two years after a determination by the commissioner as to the appropriate regulatory mode, if any, for an occupational applicant group, the same or substantially equivalent group may not submit a letter of intent to enter the credentialing process, unless invited to do so by the commissioner.

Subd. 6.Complaints.

The provisions of section 214.10 shall apply to any complaint or other communication, whether oral or written, received by the commissioner of health which alleges or implies a violation of a statute or rule which the commissioner is empowered to enforce relating to a specific occupational group for which a registration requirement has been created pursuant to this section.

Subd. 7.Delegation of certain other duties.

The duties of the executive director, executive secretary, or board members specified in section 214.10, subdivisions 1 and 2, shall be performed with respect to occupations regulated pursuant to this section by the advisory council established under subdivision 4, or if no council has been created, by the health-related licensing board which has been delegated the administration of regulation activities, or if no such delegation has been made, by a staff member appointed by the commissioner. For the purposes of subdivision 6 and this subdivision, the commissioner may exercise the powers granted to boards by section 214.10, subdivision 3, when carrying out the duties of this subdivision.

214.131 COMMISSIONER CEASE AND DESIST AUTHORITY; NONCOMPLIANCE.

Subdivision 1.Cease and desist order.

The commissioner of health may issue a cease and desist order to stop a person from engaging in an unauthorized practice or violating or threatening to violate a statute, rule, or order that the commissioner of health has issued or is empowered to enforce. The cease and desist order must state the reason for its issuance and give notice of the person's right to request a hearing under sections 14.57 to 14.62. If, within 15 days after service of the order, the subject of the order fails to request a hearing in writing, the cease and desist order becomes final.

A hearing must be initiated by the commissioner of health not later than 30 days after the date the commissioner receives a written hearing request. Within 30 days after receiving the administrative law judge's report, the commissioner of health shall issue a final order modifying, vacating, or making permanent the cease and desist order as the facts require. The final order remains in effect until modified or vacated by the commissioner of health.

When a request for a stay accompanies a timely hearing request, the commissioner of health may grant the stay. If the commissioner does not grant a requested stay, the commissioner shall refer the request to the Office of Administrative Hearings within three workdays after receiving the request. Within ten days after receiving the request from the commissioner of health, an administrative law judge shall issue a recommendation to grant or deny the stay. The commissioner of health shall grant or deny the stay within five workdays after receiving the administrative law judge's recommendation.

In the event of noncompliance with a cease and desist order, the commissioner of health may institute a proceeding in a district court to obtain injunctive relief or other appropriate relief, including a civil penalty payable to the commissioner of health not exceeding $10,000 for each separate violation.

Subd. 2.Civil penalty.

When the commissioner of health finds that a person has violated one or more provisions of any statute, rule, or order that the commissioner of health is empowered to regulate, enforce, or issue, the commissioner of health may impose, for each violation, a civil penalty that deprives the person of any economic advantage gained by the violation, or that reimburses the Department of Health for costs of the investigation and proceeding, or both.

Subd. 3.Injunctive relief.

In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the commissioner of health may bring an action in district court for injunctive relief to restrain any unauthorized practice or violation of any statute, rule, or order that the commissioner of health is empowered to regulate, enforce, or issue. A temporary restraining order may be granted in the proceeding if continued activity by a person would create a serious risk of harm to others.

Subd. 4.Additional powers.

The issuance of a cease and desist order or injunctive relief granted under this section does not relieve a person from criminal prosecution by any competent authority or from disciplinary action by the commissioner of health. Any violation of any order of the commissioner is a misdemeanor.

History:

1993 c 201 s 6

214.14 [Repealed, 1983 c 260 s 68]
214.141 [Repealed, 1Sp1993 c 1 art 9 s 75]

214.15 TRADE REGULATION.

Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, members of occupations regulated by the licensing boards may advertise, but advertisements must not be inconsistent with rules relating to advertising format and substance which each board is herewith empowered to adopt if that board had statutory advertising limitations on the effective date of the rules. A board may adopt rules relating to minimum fees, splitting of fees, referral fees, compensation, hours of practice, or other practice limitations, but only if (a) the governor or the board had specific statutory limitations or specific statutory authority to adopt the rules on the effective date of the rules, (b) the rules are not inconsistent with other law and (c) the rules are immediately and directly related to the protection of the safety and well-being of citizens of the state.

History:

1980 c 596 s 6

214.16 DATA COLLECTION; HEALTH CARE PROVIDER TAX.

Subdivision 1.Definitions.

For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(a) "Board" means the Boards of Medical Practice, Chiropractic Examiners, Nursing, Optometry, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Psychology, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Podiatry.

(b) "Regulated person" means a licensed physician, chiropractor, nurse, optometrist, dentist, pharmacist, psychologist, social worker, marriage and family therapist, or podiatrist.

Subd. 2.Board cooperation required.

The board shall assist the commissioner of health in data collection activities required under Laws 1992, chapter 549, article 7, and shall assist the commissioner of revenue in activities related to collection of the health care provider tax required under Laws 1992, chapter 549, article 9. Upon the request of the commissioner or the commissioner of revenue, the board shall make available names and addresses of current licensees and provide other information or assistance as needed.

Subd. 3.Grounds for disciplinary action.

The board shall take disciplinary action, which may include license revocation, against a regulated person for:

(1) intentional failure to provide the commissioner of health with the data required under chapter 62J;

(2) intentional failure to provide the commissioner of revenue with data on gross revenue and other information required for the commissioner to implement sections 295.50 to 295.58;

(3) intentional failure to pay the health care provider tax required under section 295.52; and

(4) entering into a contract or arrangement that is prohibited under sections 62J.70 to 62J.73.

HIV, HBV, AND HCV PREVENTION PROGRAM

214.17 HIV, HBV, AND HCV PREVENTION PROGRAM; PURPOSE AND SCOPE.

Sections 214.17 to 214.25 are intended to promote the health and safety of patients and regulated persons by reducing the risk of infection in the provision of health care.

214.18 DEFINITIONS.

Subdivision 1.Board.

"Board" means the Boards of Dentistry, Medical Practice, Nursing, and Podiatric Medicine. For purposes of sections 214.19, subdivisions 4 and 5; 214.20, paragraph (1); and 214.24, board also includes the Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

Subd. 2.Commissioner.

"Commissioner" means the commissioner of health.

Subd. 3.HBV.

"HBV" means the hepatitis B virus with the e antigen present in the most recent blood test.

Subd. 3a.HCV.

"HCV" means the hepatitis C virus.

Subd. 4.HIV.

"HIV" means the human immunodeficiency virus.

Subd. 5.Regulated person.

"Regulated person" means a licensed dental hygienist, dentist, physician, nurse who is currently registered as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse, podiatrist, a registered dental assistant, a physician assistant, and for purposes of sections 214.19, subdivisions 4 and 5; 214.20, paragraph (a); and 214.24, a chiropractor.

214.19 REPORTING OBLIGATIONS.

Subdivision 1.Permission to report.

A person with actual knowledge that a regulated person has been diagnosed as infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV may file a report with the commissioner.

Subd. 2.Self-reporting.

A regulated person who is diagnosed as infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV shall report that information to the commissioner promptly, and as soon as medically necessary for disease control purposes but no more than 30 days after learning of the diagnosis or 30 days after becoming licensed or registered by the state.

Subd. 3.Mandatory reporting.

A person or institution required to report HIV, HBV, or HCV status to the commissioner under Minnesota Rules, parts 4605.7030, subparts 1 to 4 and 6, and 4605.7040, shall, at the same time, notify the commissioner if the person or institution knows that the reported person is a regulated person.

Subd. 4.Infection control reporting.

A regulated person shall, within ten days, report to the appropriate board personal knowledge of a serious failure or a pattern of failure by another regulated person to comply with accepted and prevailing infection control procedures related to the prevention of HIV, HBV, and HCV transmission. In lieu of reporting to the board, the regulated person may make the report to a designated official of the hospital, nursing home, clinic, or other institution or agency where the failure to comply with accepted and prevailing infection control procedures occurred. The designated official shall report to the appropriate board within 30 days of receiving a report under this subdivision. The report shall include specific information about the response by the institution or agency to the report. A regulated person shall not be discharged or discriminated against for filing a complaint in good faith under this subdivision.

Subd. 5.Immunity.

A person is immune from civil liability or criminal prosecution for submitting a report in good faith to the commissioner or to a board under this section.

214.20 GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY OR RESTRICTIVE ACTION.

A board may refuse to grant a license or registration or may impose disciplinary or restrictive action against a regulated person who:

(1) fails to follow accepted and prevailing infection control procedures, including a failure to conform to current recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control for preventing the transmission of HIV, HBV, and HCV, or fails to comply with infection control rules promulgated by the board. Injury to a patient need not be established;

(2) fails to comply with any requirement of sections 214.17 to 214.24; or

(3) fails to comply with any monitoring or reporting requirement.

214.21 TEMPORARY SUSPENSION.

The board may, without hearing, temporarily suspend the right to practice of a regulated person if the board finds that the regulated person has refused to submit to or comply with monitoring under section 214.23. The suspension shall take effect upon written notice to the regulated person specifying the statute or rule violated. The suspension shall remain in effect until the board issues a final order based on a stipulation or after a hearing. At the time the board issues the suspension notice, the board shall schedule a disciplinary hearing to be held under chapter 14. The regulated person shall be provided with at least 20 days' notice of a hearing held under this section. The hearing shall be scheduled to begin no later than 30 days after the issuance of the suspension order.

214.22 NOTICE; ACTION.

If the board has reasonable grounds to believe a regulated person infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV has done or omitted doing any act that would be grounds for disciplinary action under section 214.20, the board may take action after giving notice three business days before the action, or a lesser time if deemed necessary by the board. The board may:

(1) temporarily suspend the regulated person's right to practice under section 214.21;

(2) require the regulated person to appear personally at a conference with representatives of the board and to provide information relating to the regulated person's health or professional practice; and

(3) take any other lesser action deemed necessary by the board for the protection of the public.

214.23 MONITORING.

Subdivision 1.Commissioner of health.

The board shall enter into a contract with the commissioner to perform the functions in subdivisions 2 and 3. The contract shall provide that:

(1) unless requested to do otherwise by a regulated person, a board shall refer all regulated persons infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV to the commissioner;

(2) the commissioner may choose to refer any regulated person who is infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV as well as all information related thereto to the person's board at any time for any reason, including but not limited to: the degree of cooperation and compliance by the regulated person; the inability to secure information or the medical records of the regulated person; or when the facts may present other possible violations of the regulated persons practices act. Upon request of the regulated person who is infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV the commissioner shall refer the regulated person and all information related thereto to the person's board. Once the commissioner has referred a regulated person to a board, the board may not thereafter submit it to the commissioner to establish a monitoring plan unless the commissioner of health consents in writing;

(3) a board shall not take action on grounds relating solely to the HIV, HBV, or HCV status of a regulated person until after referral by the commissioner; and

(4) notwithstanding sections 13.39 and 13.41 and chapters 147, 147A, 148, 150A, 153, and 214, a board shall forward to the commissioner any information on a regulated person who is infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV that the Department of Health requests.

Subd. 2.Monitoring plan.

After receiving a report that a regulated person is infected with HIV, HBV, or HCV, the board or the commissioner acting on behalf of the board shall evaluate the past and current professional practice of the regulated person to determine whether there has been a violation under section 214.20. After evaluation of the regulated person's past and current professional practice, the board or the commissioner, acting on behalf of the board, shall establish a monitoring plan for the regulated person. The monitoring plan may:

(1) address the scope of a regulated person's professional practice when the board or the commissioner, acting on behalf of the board, determines that the practice constitutes an identifiable risk of transmission of HIV, HBV, or HCV from the regulated person to the patient;

(2) include the submission of regular reports at a frequency determined by the board or the commissioner, acting on behalf of the board, regarding the regulated person's health status; and

(3) include any other provisions deemed reasonable by the board or the commissioner of health, acting on behalf of the board.

The board or commissioner, acting on behalf of the board, may enter into agreements with qualified persons to perform monitoring on its behalf. The regulated person shall comply with any monitoring plan established under this subdivision.

Subd. 3.Expert review panel.

The board or the commissioner acting on behalf of the board may appoint an expert review panel to assist in the performance of the responsibilities under this section. In consultations with the expert review panel, the commissioner or board shall, to the extent possible, protect the identity of the regulated person. When an expert review panel is appointed, it must contain at least one member appointed by the commissioner and one professional member appointed by the board. The panel shall provide expert assistance to the board, or to the commissioner acting on behalf of the board, in the subjects of infectious diseases, epidemiology, practice techniques used by regulated persons, and other subjects determined by the board or by the commissioner acting on behalf of the board. Members of the expert review panel are subject to those provisions of chapter 13 that restrict the commissioner or the board under Laws 1992, chapter 559, article 1.

Subd. 4.Immunity.

Members of the board or the commissioner acting on behalf of the board, and persons who participate on an expert review panel or who assist the board or the commissioner in monitoring the practice of a regulated person, are immune from civil liability or criminal prosecution for any actions, transactions, or publications made in good faith and in execution of, or relating to, their duties under sections 214.17 to 214.24, except that no immunity shall be available for persons who have knowingly violated any provision of chapter 13.

214.24 INSPECTION OF PRACTICE.

Subdivision 1.Authority.

The board is authorized to conduct inspections of the clinical practice of a regulated person to determine whether the regulated person is following accepted and prevailing infection control procedures. The board shall provide at least three business days' notice to the clinical practice prior to the inspection. The clinical practice of a regulated person includes any location where the regulated person practices that is not an institution licensed and subject to inspection by the commissioner of health. During the course of inspections the privacy and confidentiality of patients and regulated persons shall be maintained. The board may require on license renewal forms that regulated persons inform the board of all locations where they practice.

Subd. 2.Access; records.

An inspector from the board shall have access, during reasonable business hours for purposes of inspection, to all areas of the practice setting where patient care is rendered or drugs or instruments are held that come into contact with a patient. An inspector is authorized to interview employees and regulated persons in the performance of an inspection, to observe infection control procedures, test equipment used to sterilize instruments, and to review and copy all relevant records, excluding patient health records. In performing these responsibilities, inspectors shall make reasonable efforts to respect and preserve patient privacy and the privacy of the regulated person. Boards are authorized to conduct joint inspections and to share information obtained under this section. The boards shall contract with the commissioner to perform the duties under this subdivision.

Subd. 3.Board action.

If accepted and prevailing infection control techniques are not being followed, the board may educate the regulated person or take other actions. The board and the inspector shall maintain patient confidentiality in any action resulting from the inspection.

Subd. 4.Rulemaking.

A board is authorized to adopt rules setting standards for infection control procedures. Boards shall engage in joint rulemaking. Boards must seek and consider the advice of the commissioner of health before adopting rules. No inspections shall be conducted under this section until after infection control rules have been adopted. Each board is authorized to provide educational information and training to regulated persons regarding infection control. All regulated persons who are employers shall make infection control rules available to employees who engage in functions related to infection control.

214.25 DATA PRIVACY.

Subdivision 1.Board data.

(a) All data collected or maintained as part of the board's duties under sections 214.19, 214.23, and 214.24 shall be classified as investigative data under section 13.39 except that inactive investigative data shall be classified as private data under section 13.02, subdivision 12, or nonpublic data under section 13.02, subdivision 9, in the case of data not on individuals.

(b) Notwithstanding section 13.05, subdivision 9, data addressed in this subdivision shall not be disclosed except as provided in this subdivision or section 13.04; except that the board may disclose to the commissioner under section 214.23.

Subd. 2.Commissioner of health data.

(a) All data collected or maintained as part of the commissioner of health's duties under sections 214.19, 214.23, and 214.24 shall be classified as investigative data under section 13.39, except that inactive investigative data shall be classified as private data under section 13.02, subdivision 12, or nonpublic data under section 13.02, subdivision 9, in the case of data not on individuals.

(b) Notwithstanding section 13.05, subdivision 9, data addressed in this subdivision shall not be disclosed except as provided in this subdivision or section 13.04; except that the commissioner may disclose to the boards under section 214.23.

(c) The commissioner may disclose data addressed under this subdivision as necessary: to identify, establish, implement, and enforce a monitoring plan; to investigate a regulated person; to alert persons who may be threatened by illness as evidenced by epidemiologic data; to control or prevent the spread of HIV, HBV, or HCV disease; or to diminish an imminent threat to the public health.

DIVERSION PROGRAMS

214.28 DIVERSION PROGRAM.

A health-related licensing board may establish performance criteria and contract for a diversion program for regulated professionals who are unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition.

History:

2000 c 284 s 8

214.29 PROGRAM REQUIRED.

Each health-related licensing board, including the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board under chapter 144E, shall either conduct a health professionals service program under sections 214.31 to 214.37 or contract for a diversion program under section 214.28.

HEALTH PROFESSIONALS SERVICES PROGRAM

214.31 AUTHORITY.

Two or more of the health-related licensing boards listed in section 214.01, subdivision 2, may jointly conduct a health professionals services program to protect the public from persons regulated by the boards who are unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition. The program does not affect a board's authority to discipline violations of a board's practice act. For purposes of sections 214.31 to 214.37, the emergency medical services regulatory board shall be included in the definition of a health-related licensing board under chapter 144E.

214.32 PROGRAM OPERATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

Subdivision 1.Management.

(a) A Health Professionals Services Program Committee is established, consisting of one person appointed by each participating board, with each participating board having one vote. The committee shall designate one board to provide administrative management of the program, set the program budget and the pro rata share of program expenses to be borne by each participating board, provide guidance on the general operation of the program, including hiring of program personnel, and ensure that the program's direction is in accord with its authority. If the participating boards change which board is designated to provide administrative management of the program, any appropriation remaining for the program shall transfer to the newly designated board on the effective date of the change. The participating boards must inform the appropriate legislative committees and the commissioner of management and budget of any change in the administrative management of the program, and the amount of any appropriation transferred under this provision.

(b) The designated board, upon recommendation of the Health Professional Services Program Committee, shall hire the program manager and employees and pay expenses of the program from funds appropriated for that purpose. The designated board may apply for grants to pay program expenses and may enter into contracts on behalf of the program to carry out the purposes of the program. The participating boards shall enter into written agreements with the designated board.

(c) An advisory committee is established to advise the program committee consisting of:

(1) one member appointed by each of the following: the Minnesota Academy of Physician Assistants, the Minnesota Dental Association, the Minnesota Chiropractic Association, the Minnesota Licensed Practical Nurse Association, the Minnesota Medical Association, the Minnesota Nurses Association, and the Minnesota Podiatric Medicine Association;

(2) one member appointed by each of the professional associations of the other professions regulated by a participating board not specified in clause (1); and

(3) two public members, as defined by section 214.02.

Members of the advisory committee shall be appointed for two years and members may be reappointed.

Subd. 2.Services.

(a) The program shall provide the following services to program participants:

(1) referral of eligible regulated persons to qualified professionals for evaluation, treatment, and a written plan for continuing care consistent with the regulated person's illness. The referral shall take into consideration the regulated person's financial resources as well as specific needs;

(2) development of individualized program participation agreements between participants and the program to meet the needs of participants and protect the public. An agreement may include, but need not be limited to, recommendations from the continuing care plan, practice monitoring, health monitoring, practice restrictions, random drug screening, support group participation, filing of reports necessary to document compliance, and terms for successful completion of the regulated person's program; and

(3) monitoring of compliance by participants with individualized program participation agreements or board orders.

(b) The program may develop services related to sections 214.31 to 214.37 for employers and colleagues of regulated persons from participating boards.

Subd. 3.Participant costs.

Each program participant shall be responsible for paying for the costs of physical, psychosocial, or other related evaluation, treatment, laboratory monitoring, and random drug screens.

Subd. 4.Eligibility.

Admission to the health professional services program is available to a person regulated by a participating board who is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition. Admission in the health professional services program shall be denied to persons:

(1) who have diverted controlled substances for other than self-administration;

(2) who have been terminated from this or any other state professional services program for noncompliance in the program;

(3) currently under a board disciplinary order or corrective action agreement, unless referred by a board;

(4) regulated under sections 214.17 to 214.25, unless referred by a board or by the commissioner of health;

(5) accused of sexual misconduct; or

(6) whose continued practice would create a serious risk of harm to the public.

Subd. 5.Completion; voluntary termination; discharge.

A regulated person completes the program when the terms of the program participation agreement are fulfilled. A regulated person may voluntarily terminate participation in the health professionals service program at any time by reporting to the person's board. The program manager may choose to discharge a regulated person from the program and make a referral to the person's board at any time for reasons including but not limited to: the degree of cooperation and compliance by the regulated person, the inability to secure information or the medical records of the regulated person, or indication of other possible violations of the regulated person's practice act. The regulated person shall be notified in writing by the program manager of any change in the person's program status. A regulated person who has been terminated or discharged from the program may be referred back to the program for monitoring.

Subd. 6.Duties of a participating board.

Upon receiving a report from the program manager in accordance with section 214.33, subdivision 3, and if the participating health-related licensing board has probable cause to believe continued practice by the regulated person presents an imminent risk of serious harm, the health-related licensing board shall proceed pursuant to the requirements in section 214.077.

214.33 REPORTING.

Subdivision 1.Permission to report.

A person who has personal knowledge that a regulated person has the inability to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition may report that knowledge to the program or to the board. A report to the program under this subdivision fulfills the reporting requirement contained in a regulated person's practice act.

Subd. 2.Self-reporting.

A person regulated by a participating board who is unable to practice with reasonable skill and safety by reason of illness, use of alcohol, drugs, chemicals, or any other materials, or as a result of any mental, physical, or psychological condition shall report to the person's board or the program.

Subd. 3.Program manager.

(a) The program manager shall report to the appropriate participating board a regulated person who:

(1) does not meet program admission criteria;

(2) violates the terms of the program participation agreement;

(3) leaves or is discharged from the program except upon fulfilling the terms for successful completion of the program as set forth in the participation agreement;

(4) is subject to the provisions of sections 214.17 to 214.25;

(5) causes identifiable patient harm;

(6) unlawfully substitutes or adulterates medications;

(7) writes a prescription or causes a prescription to be dispensed in the name of a person, other than the prescriber, or veterinary patient for the personal use of the prescriber;

(8) alters a prescription without the knowledge of the prescriber for the purpose of obtaining a drug for personal use;

(9) unlawfully uses a controlled or mood-altering substance or uses alcohol while providing patient care or during the period of time in which the regulated person may be contacted to provide patient care or is otherwise on duty, if current use is the reason for participation in the program or the use occurs while the regulated person is participating in the program; or

(10) is alleged to have committed violations of the person's practice act that are outside the authority of the health professionals services program as described in sections 214.31 to 214.37.

(b) The program manager shall inform any reporting person of the disposition of the person's report to the program.

Subd. 4.Board.

A board may refer any regulated person to the program consistent with section 214.32, subdivision 4, if the board believes the regulated person will benefit and the public will be protected.

Subd. 5.Employer mandatory reporting.

(a) An employer of a person regulated by a health-related licensing board, and a health care institution or other organization where the regulated person is engaged in providing services, must report to the appropriate licensing board that a regulated person has diverted narcotics or other controlled substances in violation of state or federal narcotics or controlled substance law if:

(1) the employer, health care institution, or organization making the report has knowledge of the diversion; and

(2) the regulated person has diverted narcotics or other controlled substances from the reporting employer, health care institution, or organization, or at the reporting institution or organization.

(b) The requirement to report under this subdivision does not apply if:

(1) the regulated person is self-employed;

(2) the knowledge was obtained in the course of a professional-patient relationship and the regulated person is the patient; or

(3) knowledge of the diversion first becomes known to the employer, health care institution, or other organization, either from (i) an individual who is serving as a work site monitor approved by the health professionals services program for the regulated person who has self-reported to the health professionals services program, and who has returned to work pursuant to a health professionals services program participation agreement and monitoring plan; or (ii) the regulated person who has self-reported to the health professionals services program and who has returned to work pursuant to the health professionals services program participation agreement and monitoring plan.

214.34 IMMUNITY.

Subdivision 1.Reporting immunity.

Any individual, agency, institution, facility, business, or organization is immune from civil liability or criminal prosecution for submitting a report in good faith to the program under this section or for cooperating with an investigation of a report or with staff of the program. Reports are confidential and are privileged communication.

Subd. 2.Program immunity.

Members of the participating boards and persons employed by the boards and program, program consultants, and members of advisory bodies for the program are immune from civil liability and criminal prosecution for any actions, transactions, or reports in the execution of, or relating to, their duties under sections 214.31 to 214.36.

History:

1994 c 556 s 5

214.35 CLASSIFICATION OF DATA.

All data collected and maintained and any agreements with regulated persons entered into as part of the program is classified as active investigative data under section 13.41 while the individual is in the program, except for monitoring data which is classified as private. When a regulated person successfully completes the program, the data and participation agreement become inactive investigative data which shall be classified as private data under section 13.02, subdivision 12, or nonpublic data under section 13.02, subdivision 9, in the case of data not on individuals. Data and agreements shall not be forwarded to the board unless the program reports a participant to a board as described in section 214.33, subdivision 3.

History:

1994 c 556 s 6

214.355 GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION.

Each health-related licensing board, including the Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board under chapter 144E, shall consider it grounds for disciplinary action if a regulated person violates the terms of the health professionals services program participation agreement or leaves the program except upon fulfilling the terms for successful completion of the program as set forth in the participation agreement.

214.36 BOARD PARTICIPATION.

Participating boards may, by mutual agreement, implement the program upon enactment. Thereafter, health-related licensing boards desiring to enter into or discontinue an agreement to participate in the health professionals services program shall provide a written resolution indicating the board's intent to the designated board by January 1 preceding the start of a biennium.

History:

1994 c 556 s 7

214.37 RULEMAKING.

By July 1, 1996, the participating boards shall adopt joint rules relating to the provisions of sections 214.31 to 214.36 in consultation with the advisory committee and other appropriate individuals. The required rule writing does not prevent the implementation of sections 214.31 to 214.37 and Laws 1994, chapter 556, section 9, upon enactment.

History:

1994 c 556 s 8

VOLUNTEER HEALTH CARE PROVIDER PROGRAM

214.40 VOLUNTEER HEALTH CARE PROVIDER PROGRAM.

Subdivision 1.Definitions.

(a) The definitions in this subdivision apply to this section.

(b) "Administrative services unit" means the administrative services unit for the health-related licensing boards.

(c) "Charitable organization" means a charitable organization within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code that has as a purpose the sponsorship or support of programs designed to improve the quality, awareness, and availability of health care services and that serves as a funding mechanism for providing those services.

(d) "Health care facility or organization" means a health care facility licensed under chapter 144 or 144A, or a charitable organization.

(e) "Health care provider" means a physician licensed under chapter 147, physician assistant licensed and practicing under chapter 147A, nurse licensed and registered to practice under chapter 148, dentist, dental hygienist, or dental therapist licensed under chapter 150A, or an advanced dental therapist licensed and certified under chapter 150A.

(f) "Health care services" means health promotion, health monitoring, health education, diagnosis, treatment, minor surgical procedures, the administration of local anesthesia for the stitching of wounds, and primary dental services, including preventive, diagnostic, restorative, and emergency treatment. Health care services do not include the administration of general anesthesia or surgical procedures other than minor surgical procedures.

(g) "Medical professional liability insurance" means medical malpractice insurance as defined in section 62F.03.

Subd. 2.Establishment.

The administrative services unit shall establish a volunteer health care provider program to facilitate the provision of health care services provided by volunteer health care providers through eligible health care facilities and organizations.

Subd. 3.Participation of health care facilities.

To participate in the program established in subdivision 2, a health care facility or organization must register with the administrative services unit on forms provided by the administrative services unit and must meet the following requirements:

(1) be licensed to the extent required by law or regulation;

(2) provide evidence that the provision of health care services to the uninsured and underinsured is the primary purpose of the facility or organization;

(3) certify that it maintains adequate general liability and professional liability insurance for program staff other than the volunteer health care provider or is properly and adequately self-insured;

(4) agree to report annually to the administrative services unit the number of volunteers, number of volunteer hours provided, number of patients seen by volunteer providers, and types of services provided; and

(5) agree to pay to the administrative services unit an annual participation fee of $50. All fees collected are deposited into the state government special revenue fund and are appropriated to the administrative services unit for purposes of administering the program.

Subd. 4.Health care provider registration.

(a) To participate in the program established in subdivision 2, a health care provider shall register with the administrative services unit. Registration may be approved if the provider has submitted a certified statement on forms provided by the administrative services unit attesting that the health care provider agrees to:

(1) receive no direct monetary compensation of any kind for services provided in the program;

(2) submit a sworn statement attesting that the license to practice is free of restrictions. The statement must describe:

(i) any disciplinary action taken against the health care provider by a professional licensing authority or health care facility, including any voluntary surrender of license or other agreement involving the health care provider's license to practice or any restrictions on practice, suspension of privileges, or other sanctions; and

(ii) any malpractice suits filed against the health care provider and the outcome of any suits filed;

(3) submit any additional materials requested by the administrative services unit;

(4) identify the eligible program through which the health care services will be provided and the health care facilities at which the services will be provided; and

(5) if coverage is purchased for the provider under subdivision 7, comply with any risk management and loss prevention policies imposed by the insurer.

(b) Registration expires two years from the date the registration was approved. A health care provider may apply for renewal by filing with the administrative services unit a renewal application at least 60 days prior to the expiration of the registration.

Subd. 5.Revocation of eligibility and registration.

The administrative services unit may suspend, revoke, or condition the eligibility of a health care provider for cause, including, but not limited to, the failure to comply with the agreement with the administrative services unit and the imposition of disciplinary action by the licensing board that regulates the health care provider.

Subd. 6.Board notice of disciplinary action.

The applicable health-related licensing board shall immediately notify the administrative services unit of the initiation of a contested case against a registered health care provider or the imposition of disciplinary action, including copies of any contested case decision or settlement agreement with the health care provider.

Subd. 7.Medical professional liability insurance.

(a) Within the limit of funds appropriated for this program, the administrative services unit must purchase medical professional liability insurance, if available, for a health care provider who is registered in accordance with subdivision 4 and who is not otherwise covered by a medical professional liability insurance policy or self-insured plan either personally or through another facility or employer. The administrative services unit is authorized to prorate payments or otherwise limit the number of participants in the program if the costs of the insurance for eligible providers exceed the funds appropriated for the program.

(b) Coverage purchased under this subdivision must be limited to the provision of health care services performed by the provider for which the provider does not receive direct monetary compensation.

Subd. 8.Fee adjustment.

The administrative services unit shall apportion between the Board of Medical Practice, the Board of Dentistry, and the Board of Nursing an amount to be raised through fees by the respective board. The amount apportioned to each board shall be the total amount expended on medical professional liability insurance coverage purchased for the providers regulated by the respective board. The respective board may adjust the fees which the board is required to collect to compensate for the amount apportioned to the board by the administrative services unit.

Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes