Missouri boards mandate fingerprint checks for occupational therapy, clinical perfusion, and massage licenses

On April 8, 2025, the Missouri State Legislature introduced House Bill 992, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing public safety and professional accountability within the state's healthcare workforce. The bill mandates fingerprint-based criminal background checks for applicants seeking licensure in various health-related professions, including occupational therapy, clinical perfusion, and therapeutic massage.

The primary purpose of House Bill 992 is to ensure that individuals entering these critical healthcare fields do not have disqualifying criminal histories that could jeopardize patient safety. By requiring applicants to submit fingerprints to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the bill facilitates comprehensive state and federal criminal history checks. This process aims to provide a thorough vetting mechanism, allowing the respective boards—such as the Missouri Board of Occupational Therapy and the Board of Registration for the Healing Arts—to access relevant criminal records.

Key provisions of the bill include the stipulation that all criminal history information discovered during these checks will be made accessible to the relevant licensing boards, despite existing privacy laws. This transparency is intended to bolster public trust in healthcare professionals by ensuring that only those with clean records are granted licenses to practice.

The introduction of House Bill 992 has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward safeguarding patients and enhancing the integrity of healthcare professions. They emphasize that the healthcare sector must maintain high standards, especially in light of increasing concerns about patient safety and professional misconduct.

Conversely, some opponents raise concerns about the potential for overreach and the implications of broad background checks. They argue that such measures could disproportionately affect individuals with minor offenses or those who have rehabilitated, potentially limiting access to employment in essential healthcare roles. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between ensuring public safety and promoting fair employment practices.

The economic implications of House Bill 992 are also noteworthy. By potentially restricting the pool of qualified applicants, the bill could exacerbate existing workforce shortages in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to licensed professionals is already limited. As the state grapples with these workforce challenges, the balance between safety and accessibility will be crucial in determining the bill's long-term impact.

In conclusion, House Bill 992 represents a significant legislative effort to enhance the safety and accountability of Missouri's healthcare workforce. As discussions continue, the bill's fate will depend on the ability of lawmakers to address concerns while ensuring that the healthcare system remains robust and capable of meeting the needs of the community. The next steps will involve further debates and potential amendments as stakeholders weigh the implications of this critical legislation.