The 2024 Legislative session is off and running with week 2 officially behind us. Thus far 233 bills have been filed, with SDAHO actively following 32 bills, with more expected to be added to our 2024 Bill Tracker.
There are a few bills that SDAHO is publicly supporting. One which has already had it’s first hearing is House Bill 1015, which will adopt the social work licensure compact. Michele Snyders, Hospice and Palliative Care Program Manager for SDAHO virtually testified in support of the measure, helping lawmakers better understand the intent behind the legislation. The measure passed out of the House Health and Human Services Committee with a unanimous vote and will be heard next by the full House of Representatives.
Also passing out of House Health and Human Services, is House Bill 1012, which will adopt the interstate counseling licensure compact and revise educational requirements to comply with the compact. Lawmakers provided discussion on the bill, amending it before passing it on a 9-4 vote, with it’s next stop the House of Representatives.
Other bills that SDAHO is actively following and supporting include:
- HB 1014– amend the criteria for designation as a regional nursing facility and applicable reimbursement.
- HB 1016– conduct a feasibility study on the Medicaid program of all-inclusive care for the elderly and make an appropriation therefor.
- HB 1017– adopt the psychology interjurisdictional licensure compact.
- SB 44– make an appropriation to reimburse health care professionals who have complied with the requirements for health care recruitment assistance programs, and to declare an emergency.
On January 24-25, 2024, SDAHO’s Nurse Leadership Participants will be in Pierre at our state capitol learning about the legislative process, advocacy and connecting with their state lawmakers. If you are Pierre, for this event, or any others, let us know and join the SDAHO advocacy team for a House or Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Below are the days and times each meet.
- House Health and Human Services Committee – Tue. and Thurs. 7:45am CT – Room 412
- Senate Health and Human Services Committee – Mon., Wed. & Fri. 7:45am CT – Room 412
You can also visit our State Advocacy Webpage.