Relates to the licensure of perfusionists

1 Co-sponsor

• David J. Valesky

BILL NUMBER:S5353A

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to licensure of perfusionists; and to amend chapter 479 of the laws of 2012 amending the education law relating to licensure of perfusionists, in relation to extending the provisions of such chapter

Purpose

This bill relates to the licensure of perfusionists.

Summary of provisions

Section 1 - Legislative findings.

Section 2 - Amends by education law by adding a new article 134 - Licensed perfusionists

Adds Section 6630 - Definitions

Adds Section 6631 - Practice of perfusion and use of title "licensed perfusionist".

Adds Section 6632 - Requirements for Licensure as a perfusionist.

Adds Section 6633 - Special provisions

Adds Section 6634 - State committee for perfusion

Adds Section 6635 - Limited permits

Adds Section 6636 - Exempt persons

Section 3 - Amends the education law in Section 2 of chapter 479 of the laws of 2012

Section 4 - Effective Date

Justification

Changes to the education law that required certain laboratory tests to be performed by licensed professionals had the unintended consequence of forbidding perfusionists from directly performing tests essential to the proper operation of machines they operate during surgery. This forced them to get another licensed professional to perform tests that they had previously performed independently while monitoring their machines. That situation created a risk of error in the operating room, and led to delays in surgery. In 2012 legislation was signed into law authorizing a temporary permit process to enable perfusionists to again perform those tests and operate perfusionists equipment independently until 2014.

This legislation will extend that authorization until 2016, at which time, perfusionists will be able to apply to become licensed with State Education Department, and after which time they will be authorized by law to conduct the appropriate tests and operate the equipment related to those tests.

Legislative history

Chapter 479 of the Laws of 2012

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

This act shall take effect three years after it shall have become a law; provided, however, that effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date is authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.