Requirements to practice as a forensic nurse; continuing education

Sec. 35. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), in order for an individual to practice as a forensic nurse, the individual must meet the following requirements: (1) Holds an active license as a registered nurse under this article. (2) Completes a biennial forensic nursing educational program that has either been: (A) identified by the state department of health's statewide sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) coordinator and administered by the Indiana SANE training project; or (B) approved by the board and that is substantially equivalent to a program described in clause (A). (3) Submits to the board a certificate of completion of a program described in subdivision (2). (b) The board shall determine the criteria and requirements for biennial continuing education for a forensic nurse, taking into consideration programs approved by the state department of health's statewide sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) coordinator or provided by the Indiana SANE training project. A forensic nurse shall meet the continuing education requirements set by the board under this subsection in order to continue practicing as a forensic nurse. (c) A forensic nurse who is practicing as a forensic nurse on June 30, 2021, is not required to meet the education requirements set forth in subsection (a)(2) until June 30, 2023. As added by P.L.90-2021, SEC.2.