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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2025-06-26

Vote Breakdown

Plain Language Summary

This bill establishes a Genetic Counselors Licensure Board in North Carolina and creates a new licensing system for genetic counselors. Genetic counselors would need to be certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling and meet additional qualifications to practice in the state. The Board would regulate genetic counselors' practice, set ethical standards, investigate complaints, and enforce disciplinary actions.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue that licensing genetic counselors protects patients by ensuring they receive services from qualified professionals with proper training and credentials.
• •Licensure creates clear standards of care, accountability through disciplinary procedures, and allows patients to verify a counselor's qualifications.
• •It also helps regulate an important healthcare field that involves advising people on genetic testing and medical decisions affecting their families.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue that licensing creates additional regulatory costs and barriers to entry that could limit access to genetic counseling services, particularly in rural areas.
• •They might contend that existing national certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling is sufficient without state licensure, and that the licensing fees and application requirements could increase healthcare costs for consumers seeking these services.