Genetic counseling licensure bill advances

Lawmakers gave first-round approval Feb. 15 to a bill that would provide a formal licensure process for genetic counselors.

Under LB831, introduced by Omaha Senator Gwen Howard, a genetic counselor who has satisfied the training and certification requirements of the American Board of Genetic Counseling could apply for licensure.

Howard said genetic counseling currently is unregulated in Nebraska. To qualify for certification under the bill, counselors must have a master’s degree, engage in supervised training, sit for a national exam and participate in continuing education, she said.

“Genetic counselors are asking the state of Nebraska to hold them to standards,” Howard said.

Omaha Sen. Bob Krist offered an amendment, adopted 29-0, which would prohibit a genetic counselor from being required to counsel or refer a patient with respect to abortion.

Krist said the amendment was necessary to ensure that genetic counselors are not required to discuss options for terminating a pregnancy if their conscience prohibits them from doing so.

LB831 advanced to select file on a 25-0 vote.