BILL ANALYSIS Ó
AB 1092
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Date of Hearing: May 13, 2015
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Jimmy Gomez, Chair
AB
1092 (Mullin) - As Amended May 4, 2015
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Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: NoReimbursable: No
SUMMARY:
This bill establishes a registration program for Magnetic
Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists under the California
Department of Public Health (CDPH).
FISCAL EFFECT:
AB 1092
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1)One-time GF costs over the first two years, likely in the
range of $1 million over two years. This includes development
of policies and procedures, promulgation of regulations,
mailing regulatory advisory packages to the regulated
community, and information technology costs.
2)Ongoing costs, likely in the range of $200,000 for staff and
IT support, would be fee-supported GF costs. Assuming 3,000
registrants, fees would be approximately $80.
COMMENTS:
1)Purpose. This bill is intended to gather more data on who is
performing MRI and provide oversight of MRI-related accidents.
The author believes of the regulatory approaches available,
registration is the least burdensome option for providers, and
will permit collection of information that can further inform
regulatory strategy. The author concludes this bill is a good
step towards better MRI safety and practices.
2)Background. According to the FDA, MRI is a medical imaging
procedure that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to
produce cross-sectional images of organs and internal
structures in the body. Although MRI is safer than the more
stringently regulated ionizing radiation techniques, such as
computed tomography (CT), fluoroscopy, and radiography
(X-ray), MRI machines are not without safety concerns. For
example, loose, ferrous metal objects may cause damage or
injury if pulled toward the magnet. The magnet can also cause
pacemakers, artificial limbs, and other implanted medical
devices containing ferrous metal to malfunction or heat up.
MRI technologists are not overseen by any state entity in
California, though private certifications exist and are widely
required in order to work as an MRI technologist. Two other
states, Oregon and West Virginia, require licenses for MRI
AB 1092
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technologists.
3)Staff Comments. This bill is silent with respect to where fees
are deposited. Staff suggests a relevant special fund be
identified and the bill be amended to clearly state the
program is supported by those fee revenues in the identified
fund.
Analysis Prepared by:Lisa Murawski / APPR. / (916)
319-2081