Whitmer extends suspension of scope of practice laws for licensed health professionals

LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer extended the suspension of certain licensing and certification requirements for health care professionals, life support and first aid workers, and 911 operators on Monday.

A statement from Whitmer's office said under Executive Order 2020-150, laws and regulations requiring health care professionals to take an exam, be fingerprinted or take part in continuing education as a condition of obtaining or renewing a license, certification or registration were temporarily suspended.

“I have no doubt suspending these scope of practice laws helped save countless lives and ensured our hospitals were fully staffed to care for COVID-19 patients,” Whitmer said. “But our battle with COVID-19 is far from over. We owe it to the front line health care workers, first responders and other essential workers to continue doing our part to slow the spread of the coronavirus — which includes wearing a mask and practicing social distancing — so our hospital systems aren’t overwhelmed with new patients.”

For the duration of the emergency declaration, Whitmer said, professional certifications for individuals in basic life support, advanced cardiac life support and first aid would remain in effect even if they were set to expire.

Executive orders amid COVID-19:

• Whitmer extends protections for nursing home residents, staff through Aug. 10
• Michigan mask violators face $500 fine or misdemeanor charge