Legislative Report to GAOHN BOD
Jean Randolph  9-16-09

SB 244 Ga. Registered Professional Nurse Practice Act; performance of health maintenance act by a designated caregiver shall not be prohibited
By Sen. Renee Unterman (R-Buford)

This bill defines the term “health maintenance activities� by a designated caregiver for an individual, and allows the performance of such activities under the Nurse Practice Act. Did not pass in 2009, carries over to 2010 Session.

We will need to learn more about the implications of this. Have tried to find on GA Leg site but there is no real information. Have sent e-mail to Sen Unterman asking for some clarification on it.

SB 259 Retirement; provide University System of GA employ a retired member as full-time instructor at a nursing school
By Sen. Renee Unterman

GNA’s efforts have led to the introduction of this important bill that attempts to address the nursing faculty shortage in the state of Georgia. SB 259 will allow retiring nurse faculty to return to work after one year, which could have an immediate, positive effect on Georgia’s faculty shortage. The measure is similar to Senate Bill 327, which passed in 2008, allowing retirees in the Teachers Retirement System to be rehired. Did not pass in 2009, carries over to 2010

The following two bills are only two of the ones introduced to try and help the Trauma System which is in huge trouble due to lack of proper funding. Suggest we try to raise awareness of this issue with members and ask f or them to support with their representatives. We can send out updates as Trauma Network sends to me and they also send draft letters. This is a way bigger problem for those who live in rural areas where the ‘golden hour’ turns into 2-4 when there is no helicopter or ambulance to take them to the proper trauma center.

HB 148 Georgia Trauma Care Network Commission; certain reports; certain funds; provisions
By Rep. Austin Scott (R-Tifton)

$10 fee added to vehicle registration throughout the state would be directed to the state’s trauma network. Did not pass in 2009, carries over to 2010 Session.

HB 160 Driver Services, Department of; increase fees; speed restrictions; provisions
By Rep. Jim Cole (R-Forsyth)

The “Super Speeders� bill. This measure sets forth fine increases for speeding, especially for repeat offenders. The additional revenue would be directed to the state trauma network, though language does not specifically earmark the funds for this purpose. Passed March 25, awaits Governor’s signature.

HB 217 Access to Flu Vaccines Act
By Rep. Jimmy Pruett (R-Eastman)

A bill to allow pharmacists, nurses and others administer flu vaccinations. Part of Governor Sonny Perdue’s 2009 legislative package. Signed by Governor on April 28, 2009

HB 509 Professions and businesses; regulation; change provisions
By Rep. Sharon Cooper (R-Marietta)

This bill changes the definitions in Georgia code sections for “physician� and “physician assistant,� expanding the PA’s scope of practice. Language in the bill would allow medical assistants to administer injections. The measure changes the membership and duties of the Composite State Board of Medical Examiners as well. An amendment to the bill will allow APRNs to certify death. Signed by Governor on May 9, 2009

Workers Comp

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-102 and §34-9-103:

These sections were amended to reflect changes in service on parties and counsel of record in conjunction with the implementation of the Board's electronic filing system.O.C.G.A. §34-9-102 and O.C.G.A. §34-9-103 have been amended in three ways: 1) service on "parties" should include service on counsel of record; 2) service on counsel of record should constitute service on a party; and 3) the effective date of an order should be the date the electronic notification of that order is electronically transmitted  to the party.

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-207:

This section was amended to clarify the process for obtaining medical records in workers' compensation claims. This legislation strikes a balance between the competing interests of: 1) employers and insurers in obtaining medical records in a workers' compensation claim; and 2) injured employees with concerns regarding the relevance of medical records that have been requested and/or any privacy rights. The legislation also provides guidance to medical practitioners regarding the release of medical records in workers' compensation claims.

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-223:

This section was amended to clarify that final settlements, as well as lump sum payments, may be paid by an employer/insurer to a trustee appointed by the Superior Court.

Downloaded from GNA site - http://www.georgianurses.org/2009legislative_wrapup.pdf