HB3382 98TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

LRB098 08869 MGM 39000 b

98TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2013 and 2014
HB3382

Introduced , by Rep. Silvana Tabares

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:

225 ILCS 15/10	from Ch. 111, par. 5360
225 ILCS 15/13	from Ch. 111, par. 5363
225 ILCS 25/9	from Ch. 111, par. 2309
225 ILCS 25/13	from Ch. 111, par. 2313
225 ILCS 25/16.1	from Ch. 111, par. 2316.1
225 ILCS 60/9	from Ch. 111, par. 4400-9
225 ILCS 60/20	from Ch. 111, par. 4400-20
225 ILCS 65/55-10	was 225 ILCS 65/10-30
225 ILCS 65/55-35
225 ILCS 65/60-10
225 ILCS 65/60-40
225 ILCS 65/65-60	was 225 ILCS 65/15-45
225 ILCS 80/14	from Ch. 111, par. 3914
225 ILCS 80/16	from Ch. 111, par. 3916
225 ILCS 100/10	from Ch. 111, par. 4810
225 ILCS 100/14	from Ch. 111, par. 4814
320 ILCS 20/3.5

Amends various Acts. Provides that, beginning January 1, 2016, qualifications and continuing education requirements for health care professionals shall include completion of a one-hour course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect. Amends the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. Provides that the Department on Aging shall establish and implement a one-hour course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect by health care professionals.

FISCAL NOTE ACT MAY APPLY

A BILL FOR

AN ACT concerning regulation.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Section 5. The Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act is amended by changing Sections 10 and 13 as follows:

(225 ILCS 15/10) (from Ch. 111, par. 5360)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2017)

Sec. 10. Qualifications of applicants; examination. The Department, except as provided in Section 11 of this Act, shall issue a license as a clinical psychologist to any person who pays an application fee and who:

(1) is at least 21 years of age; and has not engaged in conduct or activities which would constitute grounds for discipline under this Act;

(2) (blank);

(3) is a graduate of a doctoral program from a college, university or school accredited by the regional accrediting body which is recognized by the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation and is in the jurisdiction in which it is located for purposes of granting the doctoral degree and either:

(a) is a graduate of a doctoral program in clinical, school or counseling psychology either accredited by the American Psychological Association or approved by the Council for the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology or other national board recognized by the Board, and has completed 2 years of satisfactory supervised experience in clinical, school or counseling psychology at least one of which is an internship and one of which is postdoctoral; or

(b) holds a doctoral degree from a recognized college, university or school which the Department, through its rules, establishes as being equivalent to a clinical, school or counseling psychology program and has completed at least one course in each of the following 7 content areas, in actual attendance at a recognized university, college or school whose graduates would be eligible for licensure under this Act: scientific and professional ethics, biological basis of behavior, cognitive-affective basis of behavior, social basis of behavior, individual differences, assessment, and treatment modalities; and has completed 2 years of satisfactory supervised experience in clinical, school or counseling psychology, at least one of which is an internship and one of which is postdoctoral; or

(c) holds a doctorate in psychology or in a program whose content is psychological in nature from an accredited college, university or school not meeting the standards of paragraph (a) or (b) of this subsection (3) and provides evidence of the completion of at least one course in each of the 7 content areas specified in paragraph (b) in actual attendance at a recognized university, school or college whose graduate would be eligible for licensure under this Act; and has completed an appropriate practicum, an internship or equivalent supervised clinical experience in an organized mental health care setting and 2 years of satisfactory supervised experience in clinical or counseling psychology, at least one of which is postdoctoral; and

(3.5) beginning January 1, 2016, presents satisfactory evidence of completion of a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act; and

(4) has passed an examination authorized by the Department to determine his or her fitness to receive a license.

Applicants for licensure under subsection (3)(a) and (3)(b) of this Section shall complete 2 years of satisfactory supervised experience, at least one of which shall be an internship and one of which shall be postdoctoral. A year of supervised experience is defined as not less than 1,750 hours obtained in not less than 50 weeks based on 35 hours per week for full-time work experience. Full-time supervised experience will be counted only if it is obtained in a single setting for a minimum of 6 months. Part-time and internship experience will be counted only if it is 18 hours or more a week for a minimum of 9 months and is in a single setting. The internship experience required under subsection (3)(a) and (3)(b) of this Section shall be a minimum of 1,750 hours completed within 24 months.

Programs leading to a doctoral degree require minimally the equivalent of 3 full-time academic years of graduate study, at least 2 years of which are at the institution from which the degree is granted, and of which at least one year or its equivalent is in residence at the institution from which the degree is granted. Course work for which credit is given for life experience will not be accepted by the Department as fulfilling the educational requirements for licensure. Residence requires interaction with psychology faculty and other matriculated psychology students; one year's residence or its equivalent is defined as follows:

(a) 30 semester hours taken on a full-time or part-time basis at the institution accumulated within 24 months, or

(b) a minimum of 350 hours of student-faculty contact involving face-to-face individual or group courses or seminars accumulated within 18 months. Such educational meetings must include both faculty-student and student-student interaction, be conducted by the psychology faculty of the institution at least 90% of the time, be fully documented by the institution, and relate substantially to the program and course content. The institution must clearly document how the applicant's performance is assessed and evaluated.

To meet the requirement for satisfactory supervised experience, under this Act the supervision must be performed pursuant to the order, control and full professional responsibility of a licensed clinical psychologist. The clients shall be the clients of the agency or supervisor rather than the supervisee. Supervised experience in which the supervisor receives monetary payment or other consideration from the supervisee or in which the supervisor is hired by or otherwise employed by the supervisee shall not be accepted by the Department as fulfilling the practicum, internship or 2 years of satisfactory supervised experience requirements for licensure.

Examinations for applicants under this Act shall be held at the direction of the Department from time to time but not less than once each year. The scope and form of the examination shall be determined by the Department.

Each applicant for a license who possesses the necessary qualifications therefor shall be examined by the Department, and shall pay to the Department, or its designated testing service, the required examination fee, which fee shall not be refunded by the Department.

Applicants have 3 years from the date of application to complete the application process. If the process has not been completed in 3 years, the application shall be denied, the fee shall be forfeited, and the applicant must reapply and meet the requirements in effect at the time of reapplication.

An applicant has one year from the date of notification of successful completion of the examination to apply to the Department for a license. If an applicant fails to apply within one year, the applicant shall be required to take and pass the examination again unless licensed in another jurisdiction of the United States within one year of passing the examination.

(Source: P.A. 91-357, eff. 7-29-99.)

(225 ILCS 15/13) (from Ch. 111, par. 5363)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2017)

Sec. 13. License renewal; restoration. The expiration date and renewal period for each license issued under this Act shall be set by rule. Every holder of a license under this Act may renew such license during the 90-day period immediately preceding the expiration date thereof upon payment of the required renewal fees and demonstrating compliance with any continuing education requirements. The Department shall adopt rules establishing minimum requirements of continuing education and means for verification of the completion of the continuing education requirements. The Department may, by rule, specify circumstances under which the continuing education requirements may be waived. The rules establishing minimum requirements for continuing education shall provide that, beginning January 1, 2016, a holder of a license under this Act is required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

A clinical psychologist who has permitted his or her license to expire or who has had his or her license on inactive status may have his or her license restored by making application to the Department and filing proof acceptable to the Department, as defined by rule, of his or her fitness to have his or her license restored, including evidence certifying to active practice in another jurisdiction satisfactory to the Department and by paying the required restoration fee.

If the clinical psychologist has not maintained an active practice in another jurisdiction satisfactory to the Department, the Board shall determine, by an evaluation program established by rule, his or her fitness to resume active status and may require the clinical psychologist to complete a period of supervised professional experience and may require successful completion of an examination.

However, any clinical psychologist whose license expired while he or she was (1) in Federal Service on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States, or the State Militia called into service or training, or (2) in training or education under the supervision of the United States preliminary to induction into the military service, may have his or her license renewed or restored without paying any lapsed renewal fees if within 2 years after honorable termination of such service, training or education he or she furnishes the Department with satisfactory evidence to the effect that he or she has been so engaged and that his or her service, training or education has been so terminated.

(Source: P.A. 96-1050, eff. 1-1-11.)

Section 10. The Illinois Dental Practice Act is amended by changing Sections 9, 13, and 16.1 as follows:

(225 ILCS 25/9) (from Ch. 111, par. 2309)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2016)

Sec. 9. Qualifications of Applicants for Dental Licenses. The Department shall require that each applicant for a license to practice dentistry shall:

(a) (Blank).

(b) Be at least 21 years of age and of good moral character.

(c) (1) Present satisfactory evidence of completion of dental education by graduation from a dental college or school in the United States or Canada approved by the Department. The Department shall not approve any dental college or school which does not require at least (A) 60 semester hours of collegiate credit or the equivalent in acceptable subjects from a college or university before admission, and (B) completion of at least 4 academic years of instruction or the equivalent in an approved dental college or school that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association; or

(2) Present satisfactory evidence of completion of dental education by graduation from a dental college or school outside the United States or Canada and provide satisfactory evidence that:

(A) (blank);

(B) the applicant has completed a minimum of 2 academic years of general dental clinical training at a dental college or school in the United States or Canada approved by the Department, however, an accredited advanced dental education program approved by the Department of no less than 2 years may be substituted for the 2 academic years of general dental clinical training and an applicant who was enrolled for not less than one year in an approved clinical program prior to January 1, 1993 at an Illinois dental college or school shall be required to complete only that program; and

(C) the applicant has received certification from the dean of an approved dental college or school in the United States or Canada or the program director of an approved advanced dental education program stating that the applicant has achieved the same level of scientific knowledge and clinical competence as required of all graduates of the college, school, or advanced dental education program.

Nothing in this Act shall be construed to prevent either the Department or any dental college or school from establishing higher standards than specified in this Act.

(c-5) Beginning January 1, 2016, present satisfactory evidence of completion of a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(d) (Blank).

(e) Present satisfactory evidence that the applicant has passed both parts of the National Board Dental Examination administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations and has successfully completed an examination conducted by one of the following regional testing services: the Central Regional Dental Testing Service, Inc. (CRDTS), the Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc. (SRTA), the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB), the North East Regional Board (NERB), or the Council of Interstate Testing Agencies (CITA). For purposes of this Section, successful completion shall mean that the applicant has achieved a minimum passing score as determined by the applicable regional testing service. The Secretary may suspend a regional testing service under this subsection (e) if, after proper notice and hearing, it is established that (i) the integrity of the examination has been breached so as to make future test results unreliable or (ii) the test is fundamentally deficient in testing clinical competency.

In determining professional capacity under this Section, any individual who has not been actively engaged in the practice of dentistry, has not been a dental student, or has not been engaged in a formal program of dental education during the 5 years immediately preceding the filing of an application may be required to complete such additional testing, training, or remedial education as the Board may deem necessary in order to establish the applicant's present capacity to practice dentistry with reasonable judgment, skill, and safety.

(Source: P.A. 96-14, eff. 6-19-09; 96-1000, eff. 7-2-10; 96-1222, eff. 7-23-10; 97-526, eff. 1-1-12; 97-1013, eff. 8-17-12.)

(225 ILCS 25/13) (from Ch. 111, par. 2313)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2016)

Sec. 13. Qualifications of Applicants for Dental Hygienists. Every person who desires to obtain a license as a dental hygienist shall apply to the Department in writing, upon forms prepared and furnished by the Department. Each application shall contain proof of the particular qualifications required of the applicant, shall be verified by the applicant, under oath, and shall be accompanied by the required examination fee.

The Department shall require that every applicant for a license as a dental hygienist shall:

(1) (Blank).

(2) Be a graduate of high school or its equivalent.

(3) Present satisfactory evidence of having successfully completed 2 academic years of credit at a dental hygiene program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.

(4) Submit evidence that he or she holds a currently valid certification to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The Department shall adopt rules establishing criteria for certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The rules of the Department shall provide for variances only in instances where the applicant is physically disabled and therefore unable to secure such certification.

(4.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, present satisfactory evidence of completion of a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(5) (Blank).

(6) Present satisfactory evidence that the applicant has passed the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations and has successfully completed an examination conducted by one of the following regional testing services: the Central Regional Dental Testing Service, Inc. (CRDTS), the Southern Regional Testing Agency, Inc. (SRTA), the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB), or the North East Regional Board (NERB). For the purposes of this Section, successful completion shall mean that the applicant has achieved a minimum passing score as determined by the applicable regional testing service. The Secretary may suspend a regional testing service under this item (6) if, after proper notice and hearing, it is established that (i) the integrity of the examination has been breached so as to make future test results unreliable or (ii) the examination is fundamentally deficient in testing clinical competency.

(Source: P.A. 96-14, eff. 6-19-09; 97-1013, eff. 8-17-12.)

(225 ILCS 25/16.1) (from Ch. 111, par. 2316.1)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2016)

Sec. 16.1. Continuing education. The Department shall promulgate rules of continuing education for persons licensed under this Act. In establishing rules, the Department shall require a minimum of 48 hours of study in approved courses for dentists during each 3-year licensing period and a minimum of 36 hours of study in approved courses for dental hygienists during each 3-year licensing period. Beginning January 1, 2016, during each 3-year licensing period, dentists and dental hygienists are required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

The Department shall approve only courses that are relevant to the treatment and care of patients, including, but not limited to, clinical courses in dentistry and dental hygiene and nonclinical courses such as patient management, legal and ethical responsibilities, and stress management. The Department shall allow up to 4 hours of continuing education credit hours per license renewal period for volunteer hours spent providing clinical services at, or sponsored by, a nonprofit community clinic, local or state health department, or a charity event. Courses shall not be approved in such subjects as estate and financial planning, investments, or personal health. Approved courses may include, but shall not be limited to, courses that are offered or sponsored by approved colleges, universities, and hospitals and by recognized national, State, and local dental and dental hygiene organizations.

No license shall be renewed unless the renewal application is accompanied by an affidavit indicating that the applicant has completed the required minimum number of hours of continuing education in approved courses as required by this Section. The affidavit shall not require a listing of courses. The affidavit shall be a prima facie evidence that the applicant has obtained the minimum number of required continuing education hours in approved courses. The Department shall not be obligated to conduct random audits or otherwise independently verify that an applicant has met the continuing education requirement. The Department, however, may not conduct random audits of more than 10% of the licensed dentists and dental hygienists in any one licensing cycle to verify compliance with continuing education requirements. If the Department, however, receives a complaint that a licensee has not completed the required continuing education or if the Department is investigating another alleged violation of this Act by a licensee, the Department may demand and shall be entitled to receive evidence from any licensee of completion of required continuing education courses for the most recently completed 3-year licensing period. Evidence of continuing education may include, but is not limited to, canceled checks, official verification forms of attendance, and continuing education recording forms, that demonstrate a reasonable record of attendance. The Board shall determine, in accordance with rules adopted by the Department, whether a licensee or applicant has met the continuing education requirements. Any dentist who holds more than one license under this Act shall be required to complete only the minimum number of hours of continuing education required for renewal of a single license. The Department may provide exemptions from continuing education requirements. The exemptions shall include, but shall not be limited to, dentists and dental hygienists who agree not to practice within the State during the licensing period because they are retired from practice.

(Source: P.A. 97-526, eff. 1-1-12; 97-1013, eff. 8-17-12.)

Section 15. The Medical Practice Act of 1987 is amended by changing Sections 9 and 20 as follows:

(225 ILCS 60/9) (from Ch. 111, par. 4400-9)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on December 31, 2013)

Sec. 9. Application for license. Each applicant for a license shall:

(A) Make application on blank forms prepared and furnished by the Department.

(B) Submit evidence satisfactory to the Department that the applicant:

(1) is of good moral character. In determining moral character under this Section, the Department may take into consideration whether the applicant has engaged in conduct or activities which would constitute grounds for discipline under this Act. The Department may also request the applicant to submit, and may consider as evidence of moral character, endorsements from 2 or 3 individuals licensed under this Act;

(2) has the preliminary and professional education required by this Act;

(2.5) beginning January 1, 2016, has successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(3) (blank); and

(4) is physically, mentally, and professionally capable of practicing medicine with reasonable judgment, skill, and safety. In determining physical, mental and professional capacity under this Section, the Licensing Board may, upon a showing of a possible incapacity or conduct or activities that would constitute grounds for discipline under this Act, compel any applicant to submit to a mental or physical examination and evaluation, or both, as provided for in Section 22 of this Act. The Licensing Board may condition or restrict any license, subject to the same terms and conditions as are provided for the Disciplinary Board under Section 22 of this Act. Any such condition of a restricted license shall provide that the Chief Medical Coordinator or Deputy Medical Coordinator shall have the authority to review the subject physician's compliance with such conditions or restrictions, including, where appropriate, the physician's record of treatment and counseling regarding the impairment, to the extent permitted by applicable federal statutes and regulations safeguarding the confidentiality of medical records of patients.

In determining professional capacity under this Section, an individual may be required to complete such additional testing, training, or remedial education as the Licensing Board may deem necessary in order to establish the applicant's present capacity to practice medicine with reasonable judgment, skill, and safety. The Licensing Board may consider the following criteria, as they relate to an applicant, as part of its determination of professional capacity:

(1) Medical research in an established research facility, hospital, college or university, or private corporation.

(2) Specialized training or education.

(3) Publication of original work in learned, medical, or scientific journals.

(4) Participation in federal, State, local, or international public health programs or organizations.

(5) Professional service in a federal veterans or military institution.

(6) Any other professional activities deemed to maintain and enhance the clinical capabilities of the applicant.

Any applicant applying for a license to practice medicine in all of its branches or for a license as a chiropractic physician who has not been engaged in the active practice of medicine or has not been enrolled in a medical program for 2 years prior to application must submit proof of professional capacity to the Licensing Board.

Any applicant applying for a temporary license that has not been engaged in the active practice of medicine or has not been enrolled in a medical program for longer than 5 years prior to application must submit proof of professional capacity to the Licensing Board.

(C) Designate specifically the name, location, and kind of professional school, college, or institution of which the applicant is a graduate and the category under which the applicant seeks, and will undertake, to practice.

(D) Pay to the Department at the time of application the required fees.

(E) Pursuant to Department rules, as required, pass an examination authorized by the Department to determine the applicant's fitness to receive a license.

(F) Complete the application process within 3 years from the date of application. If the process has not been completed within 3 years, the application shall expire, application fees shall be forfeited, and the applicant must reapply and meet the requirements in effect at the time of reapplication.

(Source: P.A. 97-622, eff. 11-23-11.)

(225 ILCS 60/20) (from Ch. 111, par. 4400-20)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on December 31, 2013)

Sec. 20. Continuing education. The Department shall promulgate rules of continuing education for persons licensed under this Act that require an average of 50 hours of continuing education per license year. Beginning January 1, 2016, a person licensed under this Act is required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. These rules shall be consistent with requirements of relevant professional associations, specialty societies, or boards. The rules shall also address variances in part or in whole for good cause, including, but not limited to, temporary illness or hardship. In establishing these rules, the Department shall consider educational requirements for medical staffs, requirements for specialty society board certification or for continuing education requirements as a condition of membership in societies representing the 2 categories of licensee under this Act. These rules shall assure that licensees are given the opportunity to participate in those programs sponsored by or through their professional associations or hospitals which are relevant to their practice. Each licensee is responsible for maintaining records of completion of continuing education and shall be prepared to produce the records when requested by the Department.

(Source: P.A. 97-622, eff. 11-23-11.)

Section 20. The Nurse Practice Act is amended by changing Sections 55-10, 55-35, 60-10, 60-40, and 65-60 as follows:

(225 ILCS 65/55-10) (was 225 ILCS 65/10-30)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 55-10. Qualifications for LPN licensure.

(a) Each applicant who successfully meets the requirements of this Section shall be entitled to licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

(b) An applicant for licensure by examination to practice as a practical nurse must do each of the following:

(1) Submit a completed written application, on forms provided by the Department and fees as established by the Department.

(2) Have graduated from a practical nursing education program approved by the Department or have been granted a certificate of completion of pre-licensure requirements from another United States jurisdiction.

(2.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, have successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(3) Successfully complete a licensure examination approved by the Department.

(4) Have not violated the provisions of this Act concerning the grounds for disciplinary action. The Department may take into consideration any felony conviction of the applicant, but such a conviction shall not operate as an absolute bar to licensure.

(5) Submit to the criminal history records check required under Section 50-35 of this Act.

(6) Submit either to the Department or its designated testing service, a fee covering the cost of providing the examination. Failure to appear for the examination on the scheduled date at the time and place specified after the applicant's application for examination has been received and acknowledged by the Department or the designated testing service shall result in the forfeiture of the examination fee.

(7) Meet all other requirements established by rule.

An applicant for licensure by examination may take the Department-approved examination in another jurisdiction.

(b-5) If an applicant for licensure by examination neglects, fails, or refuses to take an examination or fails to pass an examination for a license under this Act within 3 years after filing the application, the application shall be denied. The applicant must enroll in and complete an approved practical nursing education program prior to submitting an additional application for the licensure exam.

An applicant may take and successfully complete a Department-approved examination in another jurisdiction. However, an applicant who has never been licensed previously in any jurisdiction that utilizes a Department-approved examination and who has taken and failed to pass the examination within 3 years after filing the application must submit proof of successful completion of a Department-authorized nursing education program or recompletion of an approved licensed practical nursing program prior to re-application.

(c) An applicant for licensure by examination shall have one year from the date of notification of successful completion of the examination to apply to the Department for a license. If an applicant fails to apply within one year, the applicant shall be required to retake and pass the examination unless licensed in another jurisdiction of the United States.

(d) A licensed practical nurse applicant who passes the Department-approved licensure examination and has applied to the Department for licensure may obtain employment as a license-pending practical nurse and practice as delegated by a registered professional nurse or an advanced practice nurse or physician. An individual may be employed as a license-pending practical nurse if all of the following criteria are met:

(1) He or she has completed and passed the Department-approved licensure exam and presents to the employer the official written notification indicating successful passage of the licensure examination.

(1.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, he or she has successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(2) He or she has completed and submitted to the Department an application for licensure under this Section as a practical nurse.

(3) He or she has submitted the required licensure fee.

(4) He or she has met all other requirements established by rule, including having submitted to a criminal history records check.

(e) The privilege to practice as a license-pending practical nurse shall terminate with the occurrence of any of the following:

(1) Three months have passed since the official date of passing the licensure exam as inscribed on the formal written notification indicating passage of the exam. This 3-month period may be extended as determined by rule.

(2) Receipt of the practical nurse license from the Department.

(3) Notification from the Department that the application for licensure has been denied.

(4) A request by the Department that the individual terminate practicing as a license-pending practical nurse until an official decision is made by the Department to grant or deny a practical nurse license.

(f) An applicant for licensure by endorsement who is a licensed practical nurse licensed by examination under the laws of another state or territory of the United States or a foreign country, jurisdiction, territory, or province must do each of the following:

(1) Submit a completed written application, on forms supplied by the Department, and fees as established by the Department.

(2) Have graduated from a practical nursing education program approved by the Department.

(2.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, have successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(3) Submit verification of licensure status directly from the United States jurisdiction of licensure, if applicable, as defined by rule.

(4) Submit to the criminal history records check required under Section 50-35 of this Act.

(5) Meet all other requirements as established by the Department by rule.

(g) All applicants for practical nurse licensure by examination or endorsement who are graduates of nursing educational programs in a country other than the United States or its territories shall have their nursing education credentials evaluated by a Department-approved nursing credentialing evaluation service. No such applicant may be issued a license under this Act unless the applicant's program is deemed by the nursing credentialing evaluation service to be equivalent to a professional nursing education program approved by the Department. An applicant who has graduated from a nursing educational program outside of the United States or its territories and whose first language is not English shall submit certification of passage of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), as defined by rule. The Department may, upon recommendation from the nursing evaluation service, waive the requirement that the applicant pass the TOEFL examination if the applicant submits verification of the successful completion of a nursing education program conducted in English. The requirements of this subsection (d) may be satisfied by the showing of proof of a certificate from the Certificate Program or the VisaScreen Program of the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

(h) An applicant licensed in another state or territory who is applying for licensure and has received her or his education in a country other than the United States or its territories shall have her or his nursing education credentials evaluated by a Department-approved nursing credentialing evaluation service. No such applicant may be issued a license under this Act unless the applicant's program is deemed by the nursing credentialing evaluation service to be equivalent to a professional nursing education program approved by the Department. An applicant who has graduated from a nursing educational program outside of the United States or its territories and whose first language is not English shall submit certification of passage of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), as defined by rule. The Department may, upon recommendation from the nursing evaluation service, waive the requirement that the applicant pass the TOEFL examination if the applicant submits verification of the successful completion of a nursing education program conducted in English or the successful passage of an approved licensing examination given in English. The requirements of this subsection (d-5) may be satisfied by the showing of proof of a certificate from the Certificate Program or the VisaScreen Program of the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

(i) A licensed practical nurse who holds an unencumbered license in good standing in another United States jurisdiction and who has applied for practical nurse licensure under this Act by endorsement may be issued a temporary license, if satisfactory proof of such licensure in another jurisdiction is presented to the Department. The Department shall not issue an applicant a temporary practical nurse license until it is satisfied that the applicant holds an active, unencumbered license in good standing in another jurisdiction. If the applicant holds more than one current active license or one or more active temporary licenses from another jurisdiction, the Department may not issue a temporary license until the Department is satisfied that each current active license held by the applicant is unencumbered. The temporary license, which shall be issued no later than 14 working days following receipt by the Department of an application for the temporary license, shall be granted upon the submission of all of the following to the Department:

(1) A completed application for licensure as a practical nurse.

(2) Proof of a current, active license in at least one other jurisdiction of the United States and proof that each current active license or temporary license held by the applicant within the last 5 years is unencumbered.

(3) A signed and completed application for a temporary license.

(4) The required temporary license fee.

(j) The Department may refuse to issue an applicant a temporary license authorized pursuant to this Section if, within 14 working days following its receipt of an application for a temporary license, the Department determines that:

(1) the applicant has been convicted of a crime under the laws of a jurisdiction of the United States that is: (i) a felony; or (ii) a misdemeanor directly related to the practice of the profession, within the last 5 years;

(2) the applicant has had a license or permit related to the practice of practical nursing revoked, suspended, or placed on probation by another jurisdiction within the last 5 years and at least one of the grounds for revoking, suspending, or placing on probation is the same or substantially equivalent to grounds in Illinois; or

(3) the Department intends to deny licensure by endorsement.

(k) The Department may revoke a temporary license issued pursuant to this Section if it determines any of the following:

(1) That the applicant has been convicted of a crime under the law of any jurisdiction of the United States that is (i) a felony or (ii) a misdemeanor directly related to the practice of the profession, within the last 5 years.

(2) That within the last 5 years the applicant has had a license or permit related to the practice of nursing revoked, suspended, or placed on probation by another jurisdiction, and at least one of the grounds for revoking, suspending, or placing on probation is the same or substantially equivalent to grounds for disciplinary action under this Act.

(3) That the Department intends to deny licensure by endorsement.

(l) A temporary license shall expire 6 months from the date of issuance. Further renewal may be granted by the Department in hardship cases, as defined by rule and upon approval of the Secretary. However, a temporary license shall automatically expire upon issuance of a valid license under this Act or upon notification that the Department intends to deny licensure, whichever occurs first.

(m) All applicants for practical nurse licensure have 3 years from the date of application to complete the application process. If the process has not been completed within 3 years from the date of application, the application shall be denied, the fee forfeited, and the applicant must reapply and meet the requirements in effect at the time of reapplication.

(Source: P.A. 94-352, eff. 7-28-05; 94-932, eff. 1-1-07; 95-639, eff. 10-5-07.)

(225 ILCS 65/55-35)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 55-35. Continuing education for LPN licensees. The Department may adopt rules of continuing education for licensed practical nurses that require 20 hours of continuing education per 2-year license renewal cycle. The rules shall address variances in part or in whole for good cause, including without limitation illness or hardship. The continuing education rules must ensure that licensees are given the opportunity to participate in programs sponsored by or through their State or national professional associations, hospitals, or other providers of continuing education. Beginning January 1, 2016, a licensed practical nurse is required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. Each licensee is responsible for maintaining records of completion of continuing education and shall be prepared to produce the records when requested by the Department.

(Source: P.A. 95-639, eff. 10-5-07.)

(225 ILCS 65/60-10)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 60-10. Qualifications for RN licensure.

(a) Each applicant who successfully meets the requirements of this Section shall be entitled to licensure as a registered professional nurse.

(b) An applicant for licensure by examination to practice as a registered professional nurse must do each of the following:

(1) Submit a completed written application, on forms provided by the Department, and fees, as established by the Department.

(2) Have graduated from a professional nursing education program approved by the Department or have been granted a certificate of completion of pre-licensure requirements from another United States jurisdiction.

(2.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, have successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(3) Successfully complete a licensure examination approved by the Department.

(4) Have not violated the provisions of this Act concerning the grounds for disciplinary action. The Department may take into consideration any felony conviction of the applicant, but such a conviction may not operate as an absolute bar to licensure.

(5) Submit to the criminal history records check required under Section 50-35 of this Act.

(6) Submit, either to the Department or its designated testing service, a fee covering the cost of providing the examination. Failure to appear for the examination on the scheduled date at the time and place specified after the applicant's application for examination has been received and acknowledged by the Department or the designated testing service shall result in the forfeiture of the examination fee.

(7) Meet all other requirements established by the Department by rule. An applicant for licensure by examination may take the Department-approved examination in another jurisdiction.

(b-5) If an applicant for licensure by examination neglects, fails, or refuses to take an examination or fails to pass an examination for a license within 3 years after filing the application, the application shall be denied. The applicant may make a new application accompanied by the required fee, evidence of meeting the requirements in force at the time of the new application, and proof of the successful completion of at least 2 additional years of professional nursing education.

(c) An applicant for licensure by examination shall have one year after the date of notification of the successful completion of the examination to apply to the Department for a license. If an applicant fails to apply within one year, the applicant shall be required to retake and pass the examination unless licensed in another jurisdiction of the United States.

(d) An applicant for licensure by examination who passes the Department-approved licensure examination for professional nursing may obtain employment as a license-pending registered nurse and practice under the direction of a registered professional nurse or an advanced practice nurse until such time as he or she receives his or her license to practice or until the license is denied. In no instance shall any such applicant practice or be employed in any management capacity. An individual may be employed as a license-pending registered nurse if all of the following criteria are met:

(1) He or she has completed and passed the Department-approved licensure exam and presents to the employer the official written notification indicating successful passage of the licensure examination.

(1.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, he or she has successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(2) He or she has completed and submitted to the Department an application for licensure under this Section as a registered professional nurse.

(3) He or she has submitted the required licensure fee.

(4) He or she has met all other requirements established by rule, including having submitted to a criminal history records check.

(e) The privilege to practice as a license-pending registered nurse shall terminate with the occurrence of any of the following:

(1) Three months have passed since the official date of passing the licensure exam as inscribed on the formal written notification indicating passage of the exam. The 3-month license pending period may be extended if more time is needed by the Department to process the licensure application.

(2) Receipt of the registered professional nurse license from the Department.

(3) Notification from the Department that the application for licensure has been refused.

(4) A request by the Department that the individual terminate practicing as a license-pending registered nurse until an official decision is made by the Department to grant or deny a registered professional nurse license.

(f) An applicant for registered professional nurse licensure by endorsement who is a registered professional nurse licensed by examination under the laws of another state or territory of the United States must do each of the following:

(1) Submit a completed written application, on forms supplied by the Department, and fees as established by the Department.

(2) Have graduated from a registered professional nursing education program approved by the Department.

(2.5) Beginning January 1, 2016, have successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act.

(3) Submit verification of licensure status directly from the United States jurisdiction of licensure, if applicable, as defined by rule.

(4) Submit to the criminal history records check required under Section 50-35 of this Act.

(5) Meet all other requirements as established by the Department by rule.

(g) Pending the issuance of a license under this Section, the Department may grant an applicant a temporary license to practice nursing as a registered professional nurse if the Department is satisfied that the applicant holds an active, unencumbered license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction. If the applicant holds more than one current active license or one or more active temporary licenses from another jurisdiction, the Department may not issue a temporary license until the Department is satisfied that each current active license held by the applicant is unencumbered. The temporary license, which shall be issued no later than 14 working days after receipt by the Department of an application for the temporary license, shall be granted upon the submission of all of the following to the Department:

(1) A completed application for licensure as a registered professional nurse.

(2) Proof of a current, active license in at least one other jurisdiction of the United States and proof that each current active license or temporary license held by the applicant within the last 5 years is unencumbered.

(3) A completed application for a temporary license.

(4) The required temporary license fee.

(h) The Department may refuse to issue an applicant a temporary license authorized pursuant to this Section if, within 14 working days after its receipt of an application for a temporary license, the Department determines that:

(1) the applicant has been convicted of a crime under the laws of a jurisdiction of the United States that is (i) a felony or (ii) a misdemeanor directly related to the practice of the profession, within the last 5 years;

(2) the applicant has had a license or permit related to the practice of nursing revoked, suspended, or placed on probation by another jurisdiction within the last 5 years, if at least one of the grounds for revoking, suspending, or placing on probation is the same or substantially equivalent to grounds for disciplinary action under this Act; or

(3) the Department intends to deny licensure by endorsement.

(i) The Department may revoke a temporary license issued pursuant to this Section if it determines any of the following:

(1) That the applicant has been convicted of a crime under the laws of any jurisdiction of the United States that is (i) a felony or (ii) a misdemeanor directly related to the practice of the profession, within the last 5 years.

(2) That within the last 5 years, the applicant has had a license or permit related to the practice of nursing revoked, suspended, or placed on probation by another jurisdiction, if at least one of the grounds for revoking, suspending, or placing on probation is the same or substantially equivalent to grounds for disciplinary action under this Act.

(3) That it intends to deny licensure by endorsement.

(j) A temporary license issued under this Section shall expire 6 months after the date of issuance. Further renewal may be granted by the Department in hardship cases, as defined by rule and upon approval of the Secretary. However, a temporary license shall automatically expire upon issuance of the Illinois license or upon notification that the Department intends to deny licensure, whichever occurs first.

(k) All applicants for registered professional nurse licensure have 3 years after the date of application to complete the application process. If the process has not been completed within 3 years after the date of application, the application shall be denied, the fee forfeited, and the applicant must reapply and meet the requirements in effect at the time of reapplication.

(l) All applicants for registered nurse licensure by examination or endorsement who are graduates of practical nursing educational programs in a country other than the United States and its territories shall have their nursing education credentials evaluated by a Department-approved nursing credentialing evaluation service. No such applicant may be issued a license under this Act unless the applicant's program is deemed by the nursing credentialing evaluation service to be equivalent to a professional nursing education program approved by the Department. An applicant who has graduated from a nursing educational program outside of the United States or its territories and whose first language is not English shall submit certification of passage of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), as defined by rule. The Department may, upon recommendation from the nursing evaluation service, waive the requirement that the applicant pass the TOEFL examination if the applicant submits verification of the successful completion of a nursing education program conducted in English. The requirements of this subsection (l) may be satisfied by the showing of proof of a certificate from the Certificate Program or the VisaScreen Program of the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

(m) An applicant licensed in another state or territory who is applying for licensure and has received her or his education in a country other than the United States or its territories shall have her or his nursing education credentials evaluated by a Department-approved nursing credentialing evaluation service. No such applicant may be issued a license under this Act unless the applicant's program is deemed by the nursing credentialing evaluation service to be equivalent to a professional nursing education program approved by the Department. An applicant who has graduated from a nursing educational program outside of the United States or its territories and whose first language is not English shall submit certification of passage of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), as defined by rule. The Department may, upon recommendation from the nursing evaluation service, waive the requirement that the applicant pass the TOEFL examination if the applicant submits verification of the successful completion of a nursing education program conducted in English or the successful passage of an approved licensing examination given in English. The requirements of this subsection (m) may be satisfied by the showing of proof of a certificate from the Certificate Program or the VisaScreen Program of the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

(Source: P.A. 95-639, eff. 10-5-07.)

(225 ILCS 65/60-40)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 60-40. Continuing education for RN licensees. The Department may adopt rules of continuing education for registered professional nurses licensed under this Act that require 20 hours of continuing education per 2-year license renewal cycle. The rules shall address variances in part or in whole for good cause, including without limitation illness or hardship. The continuing education rules must ensure that licensees are given the opportunity to participate in programs sponsored by or through their State or national professional associations, hospitals, or other providers of continuing education. Beginning January 1, 2016, a registered professional nurse is required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. Each licensee is responsible for maintaining records of completion of continuing education and shall be prepared to produce the records when requested by the Department.

(Source: P.A. 95-639, eff. 10-5-07.)

(225 ILCS 65/65-60) (was 225 ILCS 65/15-45)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 65-60. Continuing education. The Department shall adopt rules of continuing education for persons licensed under this Article that require 50 hours of continuing education per 2-year license renewal cycle. Completion of the 50 hours of continuing education shall be deemed to satisfy the continuing education requirements for renewal of a registered professional nurse license as required by this Act. The rules shall not be inconsistent with requirements of relevant national certifying bodies or State or national professional associations. The rules shall also address variances in part or in whole for good cause, including but not limited to illness or hardship. The continuing education rules shall assure that licensees are given the opportunity to participate in programs sponsored by or through their State or national professional associations, hospitals, or other providers of continuing education. Beginning January 1, 2016, persons licensed under this Article are required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. Each licensee is responsible for maintaining records of completion of continuing education and shall be prepared to produce the records when requested by the Department.

(Source: P.A. 95-639, eff. 10-5-07.)

Section 25. The Illinois Optometric Practice Act of 1987 is amended by changing Sections 14 and 16 as follows:

(225 ILCS 80/14) (from Ch. 111, par. 3914)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2017)

Sec. 14. A person shall be qualified for initial licensure as an optometrist if that person has applied in writing in form and substance satisfactory to the Department and who:

(1) has not been convicted of any of the provisions of Section 24 of this Act which would be grounds for discipline under this Act;

(2) has graduated, after January 1, 1994, from a program of optometry education approved by the Department or has graduated, prior to January 1, 1994, and has met substantially equivalent criteria established by the Department;

(3) (blank); and

(3.5) beginning January 1, 2016, has successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act; and

(4) has met all examination requirements including the passage of a nationally recognized examination authorized by the Department. Each applicant shall be tested on theoretical knowledge and clinical practice skills.

(Source: P.A. 94-787, eff. 5-19-06.)

(225 ILCS 80/16) (from Ch. 111, par. 3916)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2017)

Sec. 16. Renewal, reinstatement or restoration of licenses; military service. The expiration date and renewal period for each license issued under this Act shall be set by rule.

All renewal applicants shall provide proof of having met the requirements of continuing education set forth in the rules of the Department. The rules establishing minimum requirements for continuing education shall provide that, beginning January 1, 2016, a holder of a license under this Act is required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. The Department shall, by rule, provide for an orderly process for the reinstatement of licenses which have not been renewed due to failure to meet the continuing education requirements. The continuing education requirement may be waived for such good cause, including but not limited to illness or hardship, as defined by rules of the Department.

The Department shall establish by rule a means for the verification of completion of the continuing education required by this Section. This verification may be accomplished through audits of records maintained by registrants; by requiring the filing of continuing education certificates with the Department; or by other means established by the Department.

Any licensee seeking renewal of his or her license during the renewal cycle beginning April 1, 2008 must first complete a tested educational course in the use of oral pharmaceutical agents for the management of ocular conditions, as approved by the Board.

Any optometrist who has permitted his or her license to expire or who has had his or her license on inactive status may have his or her license restored by making application to the Department and filing proof acceptable to the Department of his or her fitness to have his or her license restored and by paying the required fees. Such proof of fitness may include evidence certifying to active lawful practice in another jurisdiction and must include proof of the completion of the continuing education requirements specified in the rules for the preceding license renewal period that has been completed during the 2 years prior to the application for license restoration.

The Department shall determine, by an evaluation program established by rule, his or her fitness for restoration of his or her license and shall establish procedures and requirements for such restoration.

However, any optometrist whose license expired while he or she was (1) in Federal Service on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States, or the State Militia called into service or training, or (2) in training or education under the supervision of the United States preliminary to induction into the military service, may have his or her license restored without paying any lapsed renewal fees if within 2 years after honorable termination of such service, training, or education, he or she furnishes the Department with satisfactory evidence to the effect that he or she has been so engaged and that his or her service, training, or education has been so terminated.

All licenses without "Therapeutic Certification" on March 31, 2006 shall be placed on non-renewed status and may only be renewed after the licensee meets those requirements established by the Department that may not be waived. All licensees on March 31, 2010 without a certification of completion of an oral pharmaceutical course as required by this Section shall be placed on non-renewed status and may only be renewed after the licensee meets those requirements established by the Department that may not be waived.

(Source: P.A. 95-242, eff. 1-1-08; 96-270, eff. 1-1-10.)

Section 30. The Podiatric Medical Practice Act of 1987 is amended by changing Sections 10 and 14 as follows:

(225 ILCS 100/10) (from Ch. 111, par. 4810)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 10. Qualifications for licensure. A person shall be qualified for licensure as a podiatric physician:

(A) who has applied for licensure on forms prepared and furnished by the Department;

(B) who is at least 21 years of age;

(C) who has not engaged in or is not engaged in any practice or conduct that constitutes grounds for discipline under this Act, including without limitation grounds set forth in Section 24 of this Act, or rules adopted under this Act;

(D) who is a graduate of an approved college of podiatric medicine and has attained the academic degree of doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.);

(E) who has successfully completed an examination authorized by the Department; and

(E-5) beginning January 1, 2016, who has successfully completed a course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act; and

(F) who has successfully completed a minimum of one year postgraduate training as defined in Section 5 of this Act. The postgraduate training requirement shall be effective July 1, 1992.

(Source: P.A. 95-235, eff. 8-17-07.)

(225 ILCS 100/14) (from Ch. 111, par. 4814)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2018)

Sec. 14. Continuing education requirement. Podiatric physicians licensed to practice in Illinois shall, as a requirement for renewal of license, complete continuing education at the rate of at least 50 hours per year. Such hours shall be earned (1) from courses offered by sponsors validated by the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association Continuing Education Committee and approved by the Podiatric Medical Licensing Board; or (2) by continuing education activities as defined in the rules of the Department. The rules establishing minimum requirements for continuing education shall provide that, beginning January 1, 2016, a holder of a license under this Act is required to complete an additional one hour of continuing education consisting of the course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect established by the Department on Aging pursuant to subsection (2) of Section 3.5 of the Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. Podiatric physicians shall, at the request of the Department, provide proof of having met the requirements of continuing education under this Section. The Department shall by rule provide an orderly process for the reinstatement of licenses which have not been renewed due to the licensee's failure to meet requirements of this Section. The requirements of continuing education may be waived by the Secretary, upon recommendation by the Board, in whole or in part for such good cause, including but not limited to illness or hardship, as defined by the rules of the Department.

The Department shall establish by rule a means for the verification of completion of the continuing education required by this Section. This verification may be accomplished through audits of records maintained by registrants; by requiring the filing of continuing education certificates with the Department; or by other means established by the Department.

(Source: P.A. 95-235, eff. 8-17-07.)

Section 35. The Elder Abuse and Neglect Act is amended by changing Section 3.5 as follows:

(320 ILCS 20/3.5)

Sec. 3.5. Other Responsibilities.

(1) The Department shall also be responsible for the following activities, contingent upon adequate funding:

(a) promotion of a wide range of endeavors for the purpose of preventing elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect in both domestic and institutional settings, including, but not limited to, promotion of public and professional education to increase awareness of elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect, to increase reports, and to improve response by various legal, financial, social, and health systems;

(b) coordination of efforts with other agencies, councils, and like entities, to include but not be limited to, the Office of the Attorney General, the State Police, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, the State Triad, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, the Departments of Public Health, Public Aid, and Human Services, the Family Violence Coordinating Council, the Illinois Violence Prevention Authority, and other entities which may impact awareness of, and response to, elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect;

(c) collection and analysis of data;

(d) monitoring of the performance of regional administrative agencies and elder abuse provider agencies;

(e) promotion of prevention activities;

(f) establishing and coordinating an aggressive training program on the unique nature of elder abuse cases with other agencies, councils, and like entities, to include but not be limited to the Office of the Attorney General, the State Police, the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board, the State Triad, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, the State Departments of Public Health, Public Aid, and Human Services, the Family Violence Coordinating Council, the Illinois Violence Prevention Authority, and other entities that may impact awareness of and response to elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect;

(g) solicitation of financial institutions for the purpose of making information available to the general public warning of financial exploitation of the elderly and related financial fraud or abuse, including such information and warnings available through signage or other written materials provided by the Department on the premises of such financial institutions, provided that the manner of displaying or distributing such information is subject to the sole discretion of each financial institution;

(g-1) developing by joint rulemaking with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation minimum training standards which shall be used by financial institutions for their current and new employees with direct customer contact; the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation shall retain sole visitation and enforcement authority under this subsection (g-1); the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation shall provide bi-annual reports to the Department setting forth aggregate statistics on the training programs required under this subsection (g-1); and

(h) coordinating efforts with utility and electric companies to send notices in utility bills to explain to persons 60 years of age or older their rights regarding telemarketing and home repair fraud.

(2) The Department shall also establish and implement a one-hour course or training program regarding the identification and reporting of elder abuse and neglect by health care professionals.

(Source: P.A. 96-1103, eff. 7-19-10.)