Subcommittee approves substitute to require bias‑reduction training for licensed clinicians

House Bill 11 47 would direct the Virginia Board of Medicine and the Board of Nursing to require bias reduction training as part of existing continuing education or continuing competency requirements. The sponsor and multiple witnesses said the training is intended to reduce disparities in clinical judgment, communication and outcomes and requested inclusion of content on conditions (including sickle cell disease) that disproportionately affect certain populations.

Reverend Dr. Lakeisha Cook (Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy) read testimony from a nursing‑school chair and emphasized the evidence base for bias reduction in improving patient safety. The administration (Candy Munden King) expressed support and framed the measure as a governor priority for maternal health, noting Black mothers face higher risks. Several community groups, midwives and doulas testified in favor.

One delegate stated opposition calling the bill "divisive," while other members pushed back and cited studies showing clinicians hold false beliefs about differences in pain perception by race. A technical substitute removed a board‑specific type 1 continuing education reference to align with Boards' differing CE rules. The subcommittee voted 8–1 to report HB 11 47 with substitute.

Supporters characterized the substitute as aligning licensure competency with evidence on patient safety; opponents expressed free‑speech and regulatory concerns. The bill will proceed with the subcommittee's recommendation.