Committee Considers Certification and Fee Structure for Residential Medication Aides

LD 2083 would direct the Department of Health and Human Services to issue certificates to individuals who complete department‑approved CRMA courses, require a five‑year curriculum review and permit DHHS to set modest certification and sanction fees by rule. Department licensing staff explained they currently approve CRMA trainings under statute but seek clearer authority to issue certifications, decertify individuals and sustain a learning management system for testing and hybrid instruction. Bill fiscal language anticipates converting a grant‑funded limited‑period position to a permanent oversight role.

Board of Nursing representatives said the board has not yet formally reviewed the proposal but expressed willingness to collaborate on instructor criteria and delegation rules. DHHS described a pilot for a web‑based learning management system and a proctored exam to expand access (particularly for island and rural candidates). Stakeholders stressed the practical components of training must remain accessible and that current course prices vary widely; providers said the fee for courses (set by instructors) currently ranges and could be a barrier for some students.

Committee follow‑ups and next steps: DHHS committed to staged listening sessions with current CRMAs and instructors, to pilot the learning management testing, to supply rulemaking drafts and to provide a clearer fiscal worksheet on fee projections and the projected sustainable cost model.