KentuckySB 182026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

AN ACT relating to health services.

Sponsored By: Craig Richardson (Republican)

Signed by Governor

Administrative Regulations And ProceedingsBoards And CommissionsCannabisDrugs And MedicinesHealth And Medical ServicesHealth Care ProfessionalsHospitals And Health FacilitiesLicensingOccupations And ProfessionsPhysiciansSubstance Use

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.

Stronger podiatry enforcement and renewal deadlines

Podiatry licenses expire June 30 each year. The Board sends a notice by June 1; renewal fee and proof of continuing education are due July 1. If late, a penalty applies and you must pay by January 1 or face suspension or revocation. The Board can refuse, suspend, or revoke licenses and fine up to $500 per offense for listed misconduct. Board investigators have full peace officer powers, including entering premises to inspect, seizing evidence, and requiring records.

Tighter rules to supervise physician assistants

A podiatrist must get approval from both the medical licensure board and the State Board of Podiatry to supervise a physician assistant. A podiatrist can supervise no more than four PAs at the same time. The approval application must describe the practice, communication, PA duties, and countersignature review. Before a PA performs new services, the podiatrist must file a supplement with service, training, supervision level, locations, and any review changes. The Board may limit a PA’s scope or supervision after notice. Supervising podiatrists take on the same supervising-physician duties for podiatry matters.

New paths and rules for podiatry licenses

You can get a Kentucky podiatry license by passing the Board exam or by showing the national board certifies you passed all parts within the last 10 years. The Board can also license you by reciprocity or endorsement if your other state’s standards are at least as high. Beginning January 1, 2027, first-time Kentucky applicants must show the sponsoring institution confirms at least two years of podiatric residency.

Type 1 diabetes info for parents

The state provides free Type 1 diabetes materials for parents. The materials explain the disease, risk factors, and warning signs. They recommend a blood autoantibody test and a visit with the child’s doctor or a specialist. Schools must post the materials on their websites, display them at the main entrance, and place them in family resource and youth services centers.

Roles for podiatry residents and assistants

Licensed podiatric assistants may do tasks the Board allows by rule, and the Board licenses them. Licensed residents may practice as part of a Board-approved residency when supervised by a podiatrist and allowed by rules. The State Board of Podiatry can set rules for licensing assistants and residents, and for supervising podiatrists.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Craig Richardson
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Chris Lewis
Republican • House
Michael Meredith
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 160 • No: 1

Senate vote • 3/31/2026

passed

Yes: 37 • No: 0

House vote • 3/26/2026

3rd reading, passed

Yes: 91 • No: 1

Senate vote • 2/6/2026